The evolution of anti-doping policy: workplace implications for athletes

Abstract

This chapter begins by presenting a brief history of doping in sport. It was found that throughout history athletes have been known to seek advantages over their competitors and this has included doping practices. Societal trends occurring during the mid-nineteenth century saw an increase in doping practice and drug-related deaths in sport. It was during this time that governments and sporting organisations began to see the need for comprehensive action against drugs in sport. During this period, the policy developments of governments and sporting organisations did not lead to reductions in doping in sport. This is underpinned by the rationales for anti-doping policy being out of touch with the nature of contemporary sport as well as the ambiguity that surrounds the focus of anti-doping policies.