WADA - Scientific Research Strategic Plan

Internal

2026–2030 SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH STRATEGIC PLAN

Executive Summary

WADA’s support of anti-doping scientific research has contributed to advancing knowledge of the detection of doping substances and methods as well as of emerging doping practices, strengthening the Athlete Biological Passport (ABP), assessing the pharmacological properties of prohibited substances and drug combinations, and implementing new matrices for anti-doping tests. The five-year strategic plan (2026– 2030) outlines the future directions for WADA's Scientific Research. Its core purpose is to ensure that anti -doping science remains ahead of evolving doping threats through innovation, impact, and collaboration. The plan is built on four strategic priorities:

1. Focus on innovation & relevance: Directing innovative research towards the most pressing, as well as emerging doping threats.

2. Translation of impactful research outcomes: Ensuring research leads to practical tools and methods that strengthen the global anti-doping system.

3. Expanding research capacity & capability: Building a broader, more diverse, and better-funded global research ecosystem.

4. Increasing knowledge dissemination & visibility: Effectively communicating research findings to all WADA stakeholders and to the public.

Key initiatives include early identification of new substances with doping potential, streamlining the grant management process, improving the flow between completion of research projects and implementation, increasing the capacity for rapid response to new topics, developing a formal framework for research impact assessment, and launching a comprehensive knowledge dissemination strategy. Success will be measured by tracking scientific output, practical implementation, and ecosystem growth. The plan positions WADA as a global leader in anti-doping science, committed to protecting clean sport through scientific excellence.