Canada's privacy commissioner to launch investigation into World Anti-Doping Agency

GATINEAU, Que. — Canada's privacy commissioner launched an investigation into the World Anti-Doping Agency on Tuesday after receiving a complaint about its handling of biological samples collected from athletes.

In a release, Philippe Dufresne's office said the investigation will examine whether the collection, use, and disclosure practices of the Montreal-based organization comply with Canada's federal private-sector privacy law known as PIPEDA (Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act).

WADA's primary role is to develop, harmonize and co-ordinate anti-doping rules and policies across all sports and countries.

"WADA is aware of the investigation by the privacy commissioner of Canada and looks forward to clarifying its position to the commissioner in due course," an agency spokesman said in an email.

The investigation follows a complaint that alleged WADA had disclosed personal information to international sporting federations, the release said.

In addition, the complaint alleged the information was being used to assess athletes’ sex-based eligibility without their knowledge or consent, and for a purpose that would not be considered appropriate under the privacy law.

Specifics on countries, federations and athletes were not released. The privacy commissioner's office said it would not provide further comment at this time since the matter involves an active investigation.

WADA became subject to PIPEDA in 2015 following international pressure for Canada to ensure that the agency's vast holdings of sensitive personal information are subject to proper oversight, the release said.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 12, 2024.

The Canadian Press