Olympic Host Status of U.S. at Risk Over Anti-Doping Legislation

Former IOC member Dick Pound has warned that the United States is at risk of losing its chance to host the 2028 Summer and 2034 Winter Olympics due to its non-compliance with the anti-doping code. The Rodchenkov Act, passed in 2020, is said to violate these codes, potentially disqualifying the U.S. as an Olympic host.

Former senior International Olympic Committee (IOC) member Dick Pound has raised alarms that the United States could lose the opportunity to host both the 2028 Summer and 2034 Winter Olympics. This warning stems from concerns about U.S. non-compliance with the anti-doping code, particularly due to the Rodchenkov Act, which extends American jurisdiction to international sporting events.

Pound, who played a key role in establishing the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), stated that the Rodchenkov Act could prompt WADA to declare the U.S. non-compliant. This declaration would disqualify the country from hosting the Olympics. While it's unlikely that the 2028 Los Angeles Games will be stripped, the confirmation of Salt Lake City as the 2034 Winter Olympics host could be delayed to send a message.

WADA has not commented on this potential move, but other officials have confirmed the idea is being explored. Meanwhile, the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) and FBI are investigating Chinese swimmers' positive tests for a banned substance. Should these tensions escalate, it could jeopardize America's position in the global sports community.

(With inputs from agencies.)