A new line on Richard “Dick” Pound’s resume. The Canadian leader, oldest member of the IOC (he was elected in 1978), was designated by the Foundation Board of the World Anti-Doping Agency as founding president of WADA. The decision was adopted unanimously on Thursday, November 25, during a hybrid meeting organized in Paris. “ This honorary position particularly highlights the role that Mr. Pound played in the creation of WADA in 1999 and in its early years as the Agency's first President.“, explains the body in a press release. Richard Pound was present in Paris to accept this honor. Witold Banka, the current president of WADA, reminded the Foundation Board: “ Even after finishing his term as president in 2007, Dick remained very involved with the AMA. He continued to serve on the Foundation Board, then, in 2015, chaired the investigation that revealed details of an institutionalized doping system in Russian athletics, leading to the declaration of non-compliance with the Code of the Russian Anti-Doping Agency. As he served on the Council from 1999 to 2020, we wondered what would be the best way to mark his incredible contribution while still being able to benefit from his expertise and vast knowledge. The role of Founding President was created to recognize Dick's unique place in the world of anti-doping, and it is an excellent way to showcase his work, which has been essential to the development of WADA's efforts to protect athletes and clean sport around the world. » The position of founding president does not come with any voting rights, but Dick Pound will be invited to major WADA events, such as the World Conference on Doping in Sport.
