The breaches of the World Anti-Doping code are on all levels.
Athletes do seldom report their whereabouts, and if they do, it is not necessary correct, or they often want to be tested in military cities inside Russia. These cities are often hard to get to. Visiting these cities also requires special permission to gain access.
WADA and UKAD has reports from DCOs who has been threatened by FSB agents with expulsion from the country when trying to access these military cities.
DCOs also experience significant delays by security staff when entering venues and consistently monitored once inside (Race Walking in February and Wrestling in May).
Evading sample collection
Russian athletes also evades sample collection if they know Doping Control Officers are present at the event.
We can also read that it is not uncommon for Russian athletes in their own country to getting away from doping controls.
From the report:
- 1 athletics athlete observed running away from notification area/mixed zone after competing and prior to chaperone attempting notification
- When Doping Control Officers (DCOs) are present, athletes not completing their events or withdrawing from start lists
- 1 athletics athlete exited the stadium during her race and could not be located.
- 15 athletes at the Russian National Walking Championship (27 Feb) either did not start, withdrew or were disqualified – 6 of the athletes had whereabouts showing for other cities and not Sochi where the event was held.
Customs co-operate
WADA accredited laboratories has also reported that sample transportation packages have been opened by Russian Customs.
They report that sample bottles often not with corresponding chain of custody form. They also see that airway bills not matching documentation. Both these reports suggests interference by Customs officials.
You can read the whole report here: