NewMore trouble for IOC as report reveals Rio Olympics drug testing saw 'serious failings'
Only 50 per cent of tests were carried out; doping officers inadequately trained
A World Anti-Doping Agency report published Thursday found that “serious logistical failings” affected anti-doping efforts at the Rio 2016 Olympics.
The report of the independent observers sent to the Games by WADA, by invitation of the International Olympic Committee, outlines cases of athletes targeted for testing who “simply could not be found”.
A lack of adequately trained anti-doping personnel -- including chaperones to take athletes through test procedures -- contributed to the inability to meet daily targets for out-of-competition testing in the athletes’ village.
“In fact, often only 50 per cent or less of these planned tests were carried out,” the report said.
Problems surfaced at competition venues as well, with chaperones denied access to some areas and therefore unable to accompany athletes throughout a test and many of the doping control officers were inadequately trained in sample collection and other procedures.