No positive doping tests at 2010 FIFA World Cup

All doping tests conducted as part of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ were negative. A total of 552 urine and blood samples were taken.

In the two months leading up to the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™, all participating teams had to provide FIFA with detailed information on their whereabouts and the duration of their team activity days.

FIFA doping control officers then visited all 32 teams to conduct unannounced doping control tests, for example during training sessions or at friendly matches. Eight players from each team were drawn by lots and asked to take a doping control test. FIFA therefore tested a total of 256 players prior to the World Cup. In addition to the tests conducted by FIFA, member associations and national anti-doping organisations also conducted tests.

During the tournament itself, tests were conducted after every match. Two players per team were drawn by lots and their samples were analysed at the WADA-accredited laboratory in Bloemfontein, South Africa.

“In comparison to the 2006 FIFA World Cup, FIFA has doubled the number of pre-competition tests. Players have never been subjected to such in-depth testing ahead of a World Cup as they were this year,” said FIFA Chief Medical Officer Prof. Jiri Dvorak, before adding: “It was therefore all the more pleasing that the teams were so cooperative, and the test results prove that top performances can be achieved in football without resorting to prohibited substances and methods.”

(Source: FIFA.com)