Utah Olympic Bid Addresses Anti-Doping Concerns Amid Pitch for 2034 Winter Games
Utah’s Olympic bidders made a surprising last-minute addition to their otherwise upbeat pitch to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Wednesday, pledging that the 2034 Winter Games would adhere to international doping controls. This commitment was highlighted during their half-hour presentation as a result of nearly a week of behind-the-scenes negotiations aimed at addressing concerns that could affect the timing and awarding of the bid on Utah’s Pioneer Day.
Background of the Issue
Fraser Bullock, president and CEO of the Salt Lake City-Utah Committee for the Games, explained that there were concerns about the impact on the award and its timing, but he expressed confidence in their bid’s strength and their resolve to address the issue.
The flurry of activity was triggered by news on July 4 that the U.S. government had subpoenaed the top administrator of the international swimming federation to testify in a criminal investigation. This investigation, reported by the New York Times in April, involved allegations that Chinese swimmers who failed a doping test were allowed to compete in 2021.
The Associated Press highlighted that this move could be the most high-profile use of a U.S. federal law passed in 2020, allowing investigations into suspected doping conspiracies, even if they occurred outside the United States.
Reactions and Concerns
On July 12, the Association of Summer Olympic International Sports Federations issued a statement expressing “great concern” about the subpoena, stating it threatened the authority of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). The statement warned that this extraterritorial investigation could lead international federations to reconsider allocating future events to the U.S.
Austrian IOC member Karl Stoss, chairman of the IOC’s Future Host Commission, which visited Utah’s proposed 2034 venues in April, also expressed concerns. Bullock acknowledged these valid issues and stressed the need for a collaborative response involving the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee, the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles, and the Utah bid.
Contract Amendments and Commitments
To address these concerns, the U.S. Olympic entities committed to respecting WADA as the ultimate anti-doping authority and backing the global anti-doping code. This commitment was incorporated into a “one clause amendment” to the host contract with the IOC, ensuring that the 2034 Winter Games would uphold these standards. The contract, pending the IOC’s vote, would be signed by Utah Governor Spencer Cox.
Bullock’s portion of the presentation to the IOC included new paragraphs addressing the issue and the contract changes. He reassured the IOC, “We want our friends to feel very welcome and safe in the United States. In this respect we totally support reinforcing the Olympic Host Contract. We are 100% committed to that effort.”
Reflecting on Past Challenges
Bullock also referenced the challenges faced during the 2002 Winter Games in Salt Lake City, particularly the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. He emphasized Utah’s commitment to excellence, respect, and friendship, promising that Utah would be a reliable partner in facing any challenges together.
“You have Utah’s absolute commitment to be with you side by side to face any challenge together. You will find us to be the best of partners,” Bullock affirmed.
Conclusion
As the IOC deliberates on awarding the 2034 Winter Games, Utah’s proactive approach to addressing anti-doping concerns demonstrates their commitment to maintaining the integrity and safety of the Games, reinforcing their bid’s robustness and reliability.