Re-elected for a third term on Thursday in Montreal, World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) President Witold Bańka used the occasion to issue a strong warning against the growing politicisation of anti-doping efforts. He also delivered sharp criticism toward U.S. officials and the recently announced Enhanced Games, which controversially advocate for the use of steroids and other banned substances.
Unanimously reappointed without opposition, Bańka held his first press conference following the vote at WADA’s headquarters in Montreal. There, he expressed serious concern over what he termed an escalating trend of political interference in anti-doping affairs.
“The politicisation of anti-doping is very concerning,” Bańka stated. “We are witnessing increasing efforts to manipulate the system for political gain. There is no room for turf wars in the collective fight for clean sport.”
A former Polish Minister of Sport and Olympic sprinter, Bańka did not hesitate to call out individuals by name. He directly criticized Travis Tygart, CEO of the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, with whom tensions have risen following the 2024 controversy involving 23 Chinese swimmers. These athletes tested positive for trimetazidine—a powerful heart medication—back in 2021, yet were still allowed to compete in the subsequent Olympic Games.
