WADA approves of new code enforcing 'stringent measures' to fight doping in sport

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has reportedly resolved to ban athletes and players who intentionally take banned substances up to four years from the initial two years, during the fourth World Conference on Doping in Sports.

The meeting, which was aimed to look for ways to tackle doping in sport, ended with adopting the new World Anti-Doping Code, which put in place more stringent measures to fight doping.

According to China Daily, outgoing WADA President John Fahey said that they have unanimously endorsed and agreed to approve the code and the standards, adding that they have also agreed to be flexible on those who take the banned substance unintentionally or unknowingly.

The report mentioned that the conference also resolved to punish the athlete support personnel who include the trainers, coaches and officials that assist in doping, adding that governments have been given investigative powers to investigate allegations of doping within a reasonable period.

Fahey also said that there would be education on doping by various stake holders, adding that the new World Anti-Doping Code will become effective on January 1, 2015.

A total of 176 countries and regions had ratified the UNESCO convention and the World Anti-Doping Code as at October 1, 2013, under which there have to be enforceable laws and rules and effective monitoring of doping, the report added.