WADA chief praises China's anti-doping education efforts, emphasizing global collaboration for clean sport
GUANGZHOU - During their visit to China's 15th National Games, senior World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) officials praised China's commitment to anti-doping education and stressed the importance of global collaboration in the fight for clean sport.
WADA President Witold Banka, Vice President Yang Yang, and Director General Olivier Niggli made these remarks in an exclusive interview with Xinhua after visiting the Guangdong Anti-Doping Education and Science Base, a key stop on their itinerary. The base, one of the best among 24 such facilities across China, showcases China's 'prevention first, education as the foundation' principle, which has gained international recognition.
"The base is an incredible resource for educating athletes," said Banka. "It provides all the necessary information about anti-doping, which can be quite complex for athletes, coaches, and especially young athletes. As a global regulator, it's crucial for us to promote education to ensure a fair and clean sporting environment."
Niggli shared a similar enthusiasm, highlighting the practical value of the facility. "Athletes can relate their day-to-day experiences to the dangers they face, making it easier to understand the importance of anti-doping."
The WADA officials also discussed the importance of collaboration with governments, including China, to ensure the system works better. They cited a major WADA Intelligence and Investigations project expanding into Asia, emphasizing the need for full collaboration from Chinese authorities in combating traffickers and producers of prohibited substances.
Banka noted the project's success in Europe, where it led to the confiscation of 800 million doses of illegal steroids and the closure of over 60 illegal laboratories. The plan is to extend this law enforcement network to all continents by 2029.
Looking ahead, the officials highlighted the upcoming World Conference on Doping in Sport in South Korea, where key themes will include incorporating human rights into the code, protecting minor athletes, and ensuring testing independence.
Despite challenges like the politicization of anti-doping, Banka expressed pride in WADA's progress, particularly in establishing an anti-doping education system and setting international standards. He emphasized the importance of education as a pillar of their policy, aiming to re-balance the system by not only catching and punishing but also preventing and supporting.
Banka and his delegation will meet students at Guangzhou Sport University, Hong Kong Baptist University, and Macao Polytechnic University to promote anti-doping values and engage in dialogue, as the future of anti-doping work relies on young people's involvement.
