News release

Privacy Commissioner announces investigation into World Anti-Doping Agency

November 12, 2024 – Gatineau, Quebec

The Privacy Commissioner of Canada has launched an investigation into the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) after receiving a complaint about its handling of biological samples collected from athletes. 

The investigation will examine whether the collection, use, and disclosure practices of the organization, which is responsible for monitoring the use of drugs in sport, comply with the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), Canada’s federal private-sector privacy law.

The investigation follows a complaint alleging that WADA has disclosed personal information to international sporting federations and that the information is being used to assess athletes’ sex-based eligibility without their knowledge or consent, and for a purpose that would not be considered appropriate under PIPEDA.

As the matter involves an active investigation, the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada is not in a position to provide further details at this time. 

WADA is based in Montreal, Quebec, and became subject to PIPEDA in 2015 following international pressure for Canada to ensure that WADA’s vast holdings of sensitive personal information are subject to proper oversight.

Media contact

Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada
communications@priv.gc.ca