AIU Imposes Stricter Doping Tests on Athletes from Four Countries Ahead of Paris Olympics

Athletes from Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, and Portugal will undergo intensified out-of-competition testing to ensure eligibility for the 2024 Paris Olympics, following insufficient national testing programs.

• The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) announced that Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, and Portugal's national testing programs were deemed insufficient, prompting the need for more stringent testing.
• The decision was made after these countries failed to adhere to warnings issued following the World Athletics Championships in 2022, resulting in the imposition of tougher testing requirements.
• Athletes must undergo at least three no-notice out-of-competition tests before July 4, with each test conducted at least three weeks apart, to be eligible for the Paris Olympics.
• The enhanced testing protocol targets athletes outside the top-10 world ranking in their event, especially in endurance events, to ensure a level playing field.
• The AIU's action was supported by the World Athletics Council, emphasizing the importance of fair competition and the integrity of the Olympic Games.

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