WADA statement on the passing of former IOC Director General François Carrard

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former International Olympic Committee (IOC) Director General, François Carrard, who has died on 9 January at the age of 83. Mr. Carrard led the IOC in that role for 14 years from 1989-2003, which included the period of WADA’s foundation in 1999.

WADA President Witold Bańka said: “WADA would like to recognize the tremendous contribution Mr. Carrard made for the good of sport during his life. His time as IOC Director General coincided with the establishment and early years of WADA, and he played a crucial role in the formation and early evolution of the Agency. WADA would not have been set up in the first place, let alone enjoy the success it has had, without his strong commitment and vision. Following WADA’s creation, at every World Conference on Doping in Sport, Mr. Carrard played an active role and led, in particular, the drafting of the conference resolution that was always unanimously approved.

“His support for the Agency and for anti-doping in general never wavered throughout his long and successful career. His passion for sport, coupled with a gift for strategic thinking, made him an effective administrator and inspirational leader. He will be greatly missed. My deepest condolences and those of everyone at WADA go to Mr. Carrard’s many friends and devoted family.”