Rio Olympics anti-doping laboratory reinstated
July 21, 2016
WADA said in a statement that the Rio laboratory had "successfully complied with the ISL's requirements for reinstatement and no further suspension is required."
"The confirmation of the laboratory as an institution responsible for the anti-doping tests during the Olympics and Paralympics at Rio 2016 reinforces the confidence of the Brazil sports ministry and Brazilian anti-doping agency in the work carried out by the Rio anti-doping lab (LBCD)," the institution wrote further.
The laboratory was suspended on June 22 due "nonconformity with International Standard for Laboratories," according to WADA.
The statement comes as a relief for local organizers and the International Olympic Committee, which would have been forced to send thousands of samples abroad for testing.
The Rio Olympics - which start on August 5 - have faced problems ranging from the Zika epidemic, to crime and security worries, slow ticket sales and severe water pollution in sailing, rowing, canoeing, triathlon and distance swimming venues.
jbh/gsw (AP, AFP)