The project investigates the stability of scientific parameters related to delivering doping control samples by drone.
Anti-Doping Laboratory Qatar (ADLQ), the International Testing Agency (ITA) and Swiss drone company Rigi Technologies, are set to pilot drone technologies in anti-doping in Qatar.
Drone delivery is a rapidly expanding innovation with applications ranging from medical logistics to parcel delivery. The ITA, in partnership with ADLQ, is now setting the cornerstone for the adoption of this cutting-edge technology for clean sports activities at international sporting events.
ADLQ, in partnership with the ITA, launched a first-of-its-kind project to test the value of drone deliveries for anti-doping operations at sporting events. The drone operations delivered at the heart of Qatar’s sports movement — over Aspire Park & the Khalifa International Stadium.
The project investigates the stability of scientific parameters related to delivering doping control samples by drone, compared to conventional transport by car. The Swiss-based drone delivery specialist, Rigi Technology, will provide the drone operations.
The benefits of applying drone delivery in anti-doping operations are anticipated to be many-fold. Most importantly: sustainability, security and speedy delivery. During major sporting events, with event venues spread out over large geographic areas, samples are transported over relatively long distances using secured ground-transport services. Drone deliveries offer an alternative that reduces nearly all emissions related to sample transportation whilst speeding up delivery times and mitigating the risk of tampering with doping control samples during transportation.
The focus of the Qatar project will be to gain insights as to whether drone flights impact sample stability and integrity. In addition to the scientific parameters, the drone operation is a significant milestone showcasing that drone deliveries are a viable and reliable option for major sporting events.
