Nordic countries to continue supporting WADA - but express concern about trust in doping control

The Nordic ministers responsible for sports have signed a joint letter to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). The letter states that the Nordic countries will continue to support the organisation financially but are concerned about recent disputes over doping control.

Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Norway and Sweden have strongly advocated cooperation in international anti-doping efforts for a long time. All five countries ratified the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport early on.

The Nordic countries have now either already decided or are in the process of deciding to continue to contribute to the WADA budget for 2025. However, they express concern about two major cases that could undermine trust in anti-doping work.

The first concern relates to WADA's tense relations with the United States the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA). This applies in particular to a case where 23 Chinese swimmers 23 Chinese swimmers tested positive for a prohibited substance ahead of the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. 

The Nordic countries appreciate WADA's recent efforts for a more constructive approach with the United States and USADA and encourage WADA to continue rebuilding these relations.

On behalf of Finland, the letter was signed by Minister Sandra Bergqvist.

Inquiries: Satu Heikkinen, Senior Ministerial Adviser, tel.  +358 295 330 102