WADA Statement on joint ASADA/AFL Investigation

WADA welcomes the decision of Justice Middleton relating to the matter of the legality of the joint ASADA/AFL Investigation in Australia earlier today.

WADA accepts Justice Middleton’s decision that ASADA acted appropriately and lawfully in establishing and conducting its investigation in relation to AFL club, Essendon. Its process which engaged the AFL was deemed to be within its mandate and enabled ASADA to use all the evidence that it had properly collected. 

Collaborations between different organizations are an important aspect of any anti-doping investigation, provided rules and laws permit such sharing.

As the Australian investigation process remains ongoing, WADA will offer no further comment at this stage.