Testing during Games-time

Testing at Games time during the Olympics

• No-notice testing can happen at any time.
• Advanced-notice testing can also happen at any time. You will be given clear instructions about where and when you need to report for testing. Make sure you are on time.
• You must have identification with you. The following can be used: Olympic ID/accreditation or any other official photographic ID such as a passport or driver’s license.
• It is your responsibility to remain in sight of the person who has notified you at all times.
• Testing procedures will be nearly the same as normal, except for:

Olympic testing kit

1. Testing kit – this will look slightly different
2. Sample specific gravity – if your sample does not meet the required concentration, only one additional sample will be required
3. Insufficient sample volume – additional samples will need to be provided until the required sample volume is met
4. Doping Control Form – this will look different but will capture the same information
5. Mobile phones can be used in the Doping Control Station but NOT during the processing of your sample.

You can watch a video of the sample collection process here.

• The process for minors (under 18s) is the same as normal. You can find out more about testing procedures for minors (athletes under 18 years old) here.
• As normal, you can request a delay for a valid reason (for a list of valid reasons, click here).
• There may be the following personnel in the Doping Control Station: WADA Observer, IOC Medical Commission, IF and/or LOCOG representatives.

WARNING: Samples are owned by the IOC and will be stored for up to 8 years. Athlete samples can be re-tested at any time during that time.

Testing at Games time during the Paralympics

• Testing procedures will be almost the same as normal. No-notice testing can happen at any time, not just using your whereabouts information. You can download a leaflet about testing procedures for athletes with a disability here.
•  Advanced-notice testing can also happen at any time. You will be given clear instructions about where and when you need to report for testing. Make sure you are on time.
• You must have identification with you. The following can be used:  Paralympic ID/accreditation or any other official photographic ID such as a passport or driver’s license.
• It is your responsibility to remain in sight of the person who has notified you at all times.
• Testing procedures are virtually the same as normal other than:

1. Testing kit - this will look slightly different
2. Doping Control Form – this will look different but will capture the same information
3. Mobile phones can be used in the Doping Control Station but NOT during the processing of your sample
4. Athletes’ personal equipment such as catheters may be used. Carry an additional set of any equipment you use and make sure it is sealed

• The process for minors is almost the same as normal. You can find out more here.
• As normal, you can request a delay for a valid reason.
• There may be the following personnel in the Doping Control Station: WADA Observer, IF/IPC representative, LOCOG representative.

WARNING: Samples are owned by the IPC and will be stored for up to 8 years. Athlete samples can be re-tested at any time.