With a focus on underrepresented regions, WADA has distributed USD 184,743 (€166,000) among six independent projects. These studies, focusing on Africa, Asia, Europe, and Oceania, aim to shed light on crucial aspects of sport and the shadowy world of doping in diverse global contexts. “Our mission is to ensure that research reflects the reality of sport everywhere, especially in regions where doping may have a disproportionate impact,” WADA stated in a release.

Additionally, USD 150,000 (€135,000) has been allocated to an ambitious multinational project. Originally submitted as five separate research proposals, this consolidated study will be conducted across four continents and aims to explore athletes' perceptions of doping. This global analysis seeks to identify patterns, trends, and suspicious behaviours that could help develop more effective strategies in the fight against this scourge of sport.

The selection of the funded projects followed a rigorous evaluation process. WADA’s Social Science Research Advisory Group conducted a thorough technical review and received recommendations from external reviewers. Subsequently, the proposals were approved by the WADA Education Committee and reviewed by the Executive Committee during its March meeting. “The support for these projects highlights our dedication to addressing doping from multiple perspectives and within various sports cultures,” the organisation stated.

The 2024 Social Science Research Grant Program aligns with WADA’s Social Science Research Strategy for 2020–2024. This strategy focuses on several key areas, including athlete trajectories, clean sport behaviours, and the role of support personnel. “We want to explore how these factors influence sport integrity and the effectiveness of anti-doping policies,” WADA added.

Priority topics include the impact of anti-doping policy, the effectiveness of prevention strategies, and external influences on athletes' behaviour. These studies will not only contribute to a global understanding of doping but also offer new insights on how to improve education and policies regarding clean sport.

As part of preparations for future initiatives, the agency has announced that the call for proposals for the 2025 Social Science Research Grant Program will be launched during the week of 16 September 2024. Additionally, a webinar will be held on 2 October to guide applicants through the application process. “We are excited about the opportunity to support new research that will continue to advance our mission to eradicate doping in sport,” concluded WADA.

This new cycle of funding undoubtedly marks a significant step in WADA’s commitment to research and the promotion of cleaner and fairer sport. As these projects unfold, they are expected to provide valuable insights that will contribute to the evolution of anti-doping policies and strengthen integrity in sport on a global scale.