FIFA has unveiled an expanded anti-doping programme for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, introducing new partnerships and stricter testing measures across the tournament’s three host nations.
The 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by United States, Canada, and Mexico.
According to FIFA, the initiative will rank among the most extensive anti-doping operations ever carried out in the history of the tournament, covering both pre-competition and in-tournament activities.
In a statement released on Wednesday, May 13, FIFA confirmed it would maintain its partnership with the United States Anti-Doping Agency while also entering formal collaborations with Sport Integrity Canada and MEX-NADO.
FIFA explained that the partnerships are designed to guarantee uniform testing standards across all venues hosting the tournament.
Under the arrangement, the national anti-doping agencies will oversee out-of-competition testing on FIFA’s behalf ahead of the competition. During the tournament itself, the organisations will also assist FIFA doping control officers on matchdays across host cities.
FIFA Chief Legal and Compliance Officer Emilio Silvero said collaboration among the agencies is vital to preserving the integrity of the World Cup.
“Major international tournaments require strong partnerships,” Silvero stated.
“Through our cooperation with USADA, Sport Integrity Canada, and Mexico’s National Anti-Doping Committee, we are strengthening global anti-doping efforts and reaffirming FIFA’s commitment to fair and clean competition.”
Chief Executive Officer of Sport Integrity Canada, Jeremy Luke, welcomed the collaboration, saying it would help sustain public confidence in sports integrity.
Meanwhile, MEX-NADO Executive Director Juan Manuel Herrera Navarro said the organisation was honoured to support the competition in Mexico and emphasised the importance of maintaining fairness on the global stage.
USADA Chief Executive Officer Travis T. Tygart also stressed the importance of international cooperation in ensuring a level playing field for athletes worldwide.
FIFA added that the expanded programme will operate in line with the World Anti-Doping Agency Code and international testing standards, with coordinated sample collection and enforcement procedures across the three host countries.
The football governing body noted that preparations for the anti-doping framework will continue as it works with partner agencies to implement a unified testing system aimed at safeguarding fairness and integrity throughout the tournament.