Virtus Launches ‘Anti-Doping Awareness Program 2026’ for Athletes with an Intellectual Impairment
As we move into 2026, Virtus Sport is proud to launch its third edition of the anti-doping campaign Virtus Anti-Doping Awareness – 2026. Building on the foundations of our previous educational programs, this year focuses on making complex information accessible, engaging, and supportive for everyone involved in the life of an athlete with an intellectual impairment (II).
Why Education is Our Greatest Tool
For Virtus and our II athletes, anti-doping education is not just a regulatory requirement – it is a matter of empowerment. Many athletes in our community are more vulnerable to external influences or may accidentally use prohibited substances through common medications or medical prescriptions without checking the anti-doping rules (like the List of Prohibited Substances and Methods). By prioritising education, we help athletes protect their health and careers, so their hard-earned results are not at risk.
Is the Education Process Different for Athletes with an Intellectual Impairment?
Yes. While the rules (the WADA Code) are the same for everyone, the way we teach them must be different. Traditional anti-doping materials can be too much and intimidating for II athletes. Some modifications must be made to make the materials simple for II athletes, such as:
- Simple language: Avoid using jargon or complicated words to educate II athletes.
- Visual language: Using symbols and clear imagery to support understanding and reinforce memory through visual cues.
- Repetitive and relatable: Breaking down concepts into smaller, easy-to-understand parts to reinforce learning and familiarity.
- Empathetic: Shifting the focus from “punishment” to “protection”.
Building on Success: 2024 & 2025
Our awareness programs in 2024 and 2025 laid the groundwork for where we are today. Based on our latest reports, these years were defined by:
- Increased engagement: A significant rise in athletes and coaches participating in our webinars and digital sessions.
- Community feedback: We learned that the “Talk with the Expert” sessions were highly valued for their ability to humanise the anti-doping process.
- Collaboration and global reach: By collaborating with NADOs, we reached corners of the globe where adapted anti-doping information was previously unavailable.
What’s New for the 2026 Program?
This year, we are taking a functional approach to education. Here is what you can expect from the 2026 Awareness Campaign:
- Engaging Content: Our social media posts will feature a “fun look” with scenario-based proposals, helping athletes visualise real-life situations they might face.
- The “Athlete Support Personnel Guide“: We recognise that coaches and parents are the first line of defence. This new guide provides them with the specific tools needed to support II athletes.
- The “Accessible Athlete Guide”: A revamped, accessible guide with direct information and quick-access links to essential tools.
- Education Through Play: We are publishing a series of games that National Member Organisations can distribute to their teams—a playful way to learn the rules.
- Direct Connection via WhatsApp: We’ve launched a dedicated WhatsApp group for real-time updates. Scan the QR Code on our website to join the conversation!
- Talk With the Expert 2026: Our YouTube series is back! This year features incredible guest speakers discussing current and vital topics in the anti-doping world.
At Virtus, we don’t just test athletes; we support them. Our goal for 2026 is to ensure that every athlete, regardless of their class (II1, II2, or II3), feels confident and informed when they are called for testing.
As Virtus celebrates its 40th anniversary, we would like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the Virtus Anti-Doping Committee for their continued commitment to safeguarding clean sport and upholding the integrity of competition for all athletes.
