The news of the Russian track and field doping scandal is everywhere right now, following a report by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) which spotlights serious doping infractions by Russian athletes and officials. Athletes in the United States sent an official letter to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and WADA, calling on the groups to expand the investigation into other sports.
As the IOC, WADA, and athletes around the world seek answers and resolutions and continue the fight to eliminate doping from sport, one has to wonder how a doping culture of this magnitude can develop in a country. In The SI Vault Podcast’s recent episode, “The Doping Addiction,” producer Harry Swartout delves into this very topic. The podcast features interviews with former athletes, officials, and experts in the field, including GSD executive board member, Dr. Steven Ungerleider. Dr. Ungerleider’s extensive study of the East German doping scandal shines a light on the depth of this doping culture, the politics involved, and how a scandal from so long ago is still affecting sports today.
Listen to the podcast below:
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