The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) allocated approximately 10% of its budget to scientific and social science research in 2024, according to its recently published annual report. This makes it clear that this line of work is a key pillar of its development strategy, for which it is also seeking partners in the private sector.

This investment has strengthened collaboration with the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA), focused on developing new detection methods and improving the Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) program, which expands the ability to anticipate new substances or techniques considered doping.

The importance of investing in research

Investment in research is the foundation that allows the anti-doping system to stay one step ahead of those who try to undermine it. Detection methods evolve alongside the substances and techniques used to evade controls, so without constant funding it would be impossible to identify new molecules, detect microdoses, or anticipate sophisticated manipulations such as those affecting blood or DNA. Every dollar spent on science translates into more reliable results, fairer competition, and greater protection for athletes’ health.

Furthermore, research is not limited to laboratories. Understanding the social and psychological factors that can lead an athlete to resort to doping is essential for designing effective educational programs. Investing in social studies allows prevention messages to be tailored to different cultures, ages, and disciplines, reinforcing the credibility of the system. Together, these two aspects—scientific and social—make research the field where the future of the fight against doping is truly defined.

Improving anti-doping effectiveness

Returning to the WADA yearbook, it also shows that projects were promoted in accredited laboratories and funds were provided for innovative initiatives, including biomarkers, genetic studies, and digital technologies applied to sample analysis… All with the aim of improving the effectiveness of the global anti-doping system.

At the same time, social science research provided deeper insight into athletes’ motivations, beliefs, and perceptions of doping. This approach provides more tailored tools for designing effective and culturally sensitive educational programs.

500 million doses intercepted

Apart from research, another interesting conclusion offered by WADA in its fight against doping is that it strengthened its operational capacity through more than 100 joint operations in 48 countries which, together with 51 anti-doping organizations and law enforcement agencies, prevented more than 500 million doses of doping substances from entering the market.

In addition, there were other advances such as the approval to continue the Athletes’ Anti-Doping Ombuds program and the development of the Human Rights Impact Assessment.