When did drug testing for athletes begin?

The initiation of drug testing for athletes can be traced back to the 1968 Olympics. This marked a significant shift in sports governance, as concerns about performance-enhancing drugs began to emerge during this time. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) introduced drug testing procedures to ensure fair competition and the health of athletes.

The 1968 Olympics in Mexico City were notable for being the first Games where comprehensive drug testing efforts were made. Athletes were subjected to testing for substances that could enhance performance, which laid the groundwork for stricter regulations and widespread drug testing in sports in the years that followed.

In later years, as the issue of doping became more pronounced, further refinements and implementations of drug testing protocols occurred, but the initial step was definitely taken during the 1968 Olympics. This historical context is crucial in understanding the evolution of drug testing in sports and the ongoing efforts to maintain fair play within athletic competitions.