Drug testing procedures for Olympians, background checks for spectators

In addition to the world’s Olympians undergoing standard drug testing procedures, spectators will be expected to undergo a background screen in order to enter the Olympic Stadium or any other facility in which Olympic or Paralympic games will take place. Last month, the U.S. Department of State announced that all spectators attending the Olympic Games and Paralympics in Sochi must obtain a “Spectator Pass.” This security measure requires that, to obtain these passes, ticket holders will undergo a background check via the Russian Federal Security Service. Ticket holders may apply for a Spectator Pass on the official Olympics 2014 website, which they can pick up later and register while in Sochi. (Tickets may not be sold or scalped by individuals to ensure the safety of the athletes and other spectators, and doing so may incur fines.) Meanwhile, the Olympic athletes will have to undergo their own rigorous tests — drug tests, to ensure no illegal substances are in their systems. The drug testing procedures will be able to determine if an athlete utilized any doping methods over the months prior to arriving in Sochi. The testing will be especially focused on those participating in endurance sports, which have historically had a higher incidence of cheating. Over the course of the Games, 2,453 drug tests will be administered, and International Olympic Committee Medical Director Dr. Richard Budgett says, “I think it would be stupid to try to cheat.” Officials will store all urine and blood samples for eight years, in order to retroactively test them if necessary. We are excited to see the magnificent feats of strength and skill that each Olympic season brings, and we hope that everyone — spectators and Olympians alike — can have a safe and enjoyable experience thanks to these security measures and drug testing procedures.]]>