The number of doping tests has decreased due to the restrictions during the corona pandemic, and then Travis Tygart, chairman of the US anti-doping agency Usada, has expressed his concern. But according to Sebastian Coe, the problem is not as big as one might think.
- It's something we have to keep track of. It is clear that testing has become more difficult. But no one should think that it is not tested at all because it does. It is more challenging than usual and everyone accepts it, he says to Deutsche Welle.
Coe points out that it is also a reason why the Olympic qualification has been paused until December 1st. Something that, among other things, Sweden's federation captain Karin Torneklint has been critical of.
- I want to send a clear message to the athletes: don't sit and think this is a test-free zone. It is not. If you choose to go beyond the rules and the integrity of the sport then you will go there, says Coe.
The fact that the Olympics were moved forward by one year also means that some athletes who had actually been doping suspended during the Tokyo games may now qualify.
- I would rather not be in a position where athletes can compete again without really having been away from competition at all. But jurisprudence is extremely difficult, says Coe.