ASADA today said it has provided the AFL with an interim report, in accordance with its legislative provisions, on its investigation into the possible use of banned substances at the Essendon Football Club.

ASADA Chief Executive Officer, Aurora Andruska, said the investigation to date has been thorough and robust.

“As a result of the cooperation provided by the AFL and Essendon, the ASADA investigation has made considerable progress.

“However, it is a complex investigation and is ongoing. It is essential for the integrity of sport that ASADA comprehensively analyses the information it has now obtained. ASADA’s enhanced powers, which came into effect on 1 August 2013, are now available to be used to ensure all possible anti-doping rule violations are fully investigated, and to finalise these matters as quickly and efficiently as possible.

“As a result, ASADA will not be providing any further comment on the investigation.

This ensures the investigation’s integrity as well as protecting the privacy and rights of any affected individuals. ASADA has a duty of care to be both thorough and accurate in every step of the process,” Ms Andruska said.

Organised Crime & Drugs In Sport