New Olympic code could ban those who work with athletes caught doping

Beginning this year, athletes in Olympic sports who work with trainers, coaches or agents who have been banned for doping will be in jeopardy of receiving a ban, as well. The most noteworthy of the new rules in the World Anti-Doping Agency’s 2015 code is a prohibition from working with people who have been sanctioned themselves. Among those currently banned is Lance Armstrong’s one-time trainer, Michele Ferrari. Since he was banned, Ferrari has been photographed meeting with members of other cycling teams.

Now, the challenge is to ensure all countries and sports are fully implementing this gold-standard policy to ensure the real winners win.

USADA CEO Travis Tygart

Until the new code went into effect, there was no specific penalty for an athlete who dealt with banned coaches or trainers. Beginning this year, the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency plans to give athletes a warning if they’re dealing with a banned person. After that, the athlete could be sanctioned. Another key rules change taking effect this year increases the possible penalty for a first-time doping violation from two to four years. That change came after athletes pushed for the increased penalty for intentional cheaters.

Sports