From its foundation in 1993, the International Biathlon Union (IBU) has fought for a clean sport and prioritised the protection of its clean Athletes. The IBU became a signatory of the World Anti-Doping Code – established by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) – in 2003, and as such has always been compliant and cooperative with WADA in implementing all procedures and standards.
The Biathlon Integrity Unit was established in October 2019 to handle all integrity-related matters in Biathlon, investigating and prosecuting violations of the Integrity Code. The BIU holds the mandate to handle all Anti-Doping issues on behalf of the IBU, the Code signatory. As of 2020, there is more capacity than ever before to ensure those who break the rules are held accountable.
The BIU’s approach to anti-doping testing is founded on a continuing Risk Assessment, taking into consideration factors such as performance, country risk, testing history and other intelligence, in creating Biathlon’s Registered Testing Pool. The RTP is renewed every April.
The BIU’s Test Distribution Plan (TDP) includes intelligence-led target testing, and the entire testing process is performed in close cooperation with National Anti-Doping Organisations (NADOs).
THE SPIRIT OF SPORT
Our programs are founded on the intrinsic value of sport. This intrinsic value is often referred to as ‘the spirit of sport’: the ethical pursuit of human excellence through the dedicated perfection of each Athlete’s natural talents.
Anti-doping programs seek to protect the health of Athletes and to provide the opportunity for Athletes to pursue human excellence without the use of Prohibited Substances and Prohibited Methods.
Anti-doping programs seek to maintain the integrity of sport in terms of respect for rules, other competitors, fair competition, a level playing field, and the value of clean sport to the world.
The spirit of sport is the celebration of the human spirit, body and mind. It is the essence of Olympism and is reflected in the values we find in and through sport, including:
- Health
- Ethics, fair play and honesty
- Athletes’ rights as set forth in the World Anti-Doping Code
- Excellence in performance
- Character and education
- Fun and joy
- Teamwork
- Dedication and commitment
- Respect for rules and laws
- Respect for self and other participants
- Courage
- Community and solidarity.
The spirit of sport is expressed in how we play true. Doping is fundamentally contrary to the spirit of sport.
