Country finally brings window for testing in line with other countries
After previously resisting certain aspects of the WADA Code, Spain has finally passed legislation bringing it on board with global anti-doping rules.
One of the changes is that the country will align itself with the requirement by WADA that athletes be available for out of competition testing between 6 am and 11 pm; Spain had previously limited this to 8am to 11 pm.
One possible reason for WADA’s increased scope is that micro-dosing of EPO can only be detected for a few hours.
The new was passed by Spain’s council of ministers. According to the government spokesman, adopting the code will help the global perception of the country in sport. “[It will] protect our athletes while at the same time strengthening the image of our sports throughout the world,” he said, according to AP.
Spain has been faulted at times in recent years, with the country being accused by some of being soft on doping. It rejected the suggestions, but limiting the time its athletes could be tested left it open to criticism.
Spanish capital Madrid is one of those pushing to host the 2020 Olympics. Bid cities must comply with the WADA code.