The FIFA/F-MARC update on doping

The ongoing media debate surrounding the issue of doping in sport has raised public awareness of a problem that been steadily developing over many years. This controversy reflects both the rapid development of various sports disciplines as well as the evolution of new doping methods and agents. The Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) introduced doping controls in football in 1970 to ensure that the results of national and international matches were a fair reflection of the ability of those taking part. Over the past 12 years, the FIFA Medical Assessment and Research Centre (F-MARC) has developed a worldwide network of specialists who are involved in the educational process within the regional football confederations and national associations as one facet of global anti-doping strategies. F-MARC has also been involved in the practical implementation of doping controls for FIFA competitions at all levels. FIFA has developed close collaboration …