WADA announces details of Independent Commission

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) today announced details of the three-person Independent Commission that will investigate the serious doping allegations recently aired in a series of German television documentaries.

The Commission, which will formally initiate the investigation in January 2015, will be chaired by former WADA President Richard W. Pound. Joining Mr. Pound on the Commission is experienced Legal Counsel, Professor Richard McLaren. Professor McLaren has significant experience in the world of international sports law, and is a longstanding member of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). WADA will announce the third member of the Commission in due course.

The role of the Commission is to establish: if there have been any breaches of World Anti-Doping Code or International Standard processes or rules by signatories to the Code; if there have been any breaches of rules by WADA-accredited laboratories; if there have been any breaches of anti-doping rules by athletes and their entourage members (including coaches, trainers and doctors); and, to gather information and explore whether sufficient evidence exists that could lead to sanctions against any individual or organization under rules of the World Anti-Doping Code.

WADA President, Sir Craig Reedie: “WADA is pleased that Mr. Richard Pound and Professor Richard McLaren have agreed to look into the grave doping allegations that came to light through the recent German television broadcasts. The Independent Commission has the vital task of reviewing the allegations aired during the documentaries, as well as all other information received separately by WADA, to determine if there have been any violations to anti-doping rules.

“Once the investigation is concluded, if it is found that there have been violations or breaches of the rules, WADA will ensure that any individuals or organizations concerned are dealt with in an appropriate fashion under the World Anti-Doping Code. The Commission will be given the resources it needs in order for the investigation to be carried out thoroughly, and so that, in turn, clean athletes across the world are reassured that the anti-doping system is working in their best interests.”

The Commission will undertake its work under the provisions of the 2015 World Anti-Doping Code, which takes effect on 1 January 2015.

WADA will make no further comment on the allegations until the investigation has been completed.