Does running have a doping problem?

The podcast episode features James Witts discussing his new book 'Dope,' which delves into the historical and contemporary issues surrounding doping in sports, inspired by notable instances like the 1988 Seoul Olympics. Witts reflects on his long-standing interest in the subject, stemming from his early experiences with sports journalism and the pervasive culture of cheating, particularly in cycling and running. He examines the motivations behind doping, emphasizing the complexity of why athletes resort to such practices for performance enhancement, injury recovery, or due to external pressures.

Witts notes that while doping remains a significant problem in athletics, particularly with high-profile cases emanating from countries like Kenya, the anti-doping systems have evolved, becoming more sophisticated with methods such as the biological passport introduced to measure indirect markers of doping. He highlights how financial investment in anti-doping efforts varies across sports, with running currently bearing a heavy toll of scrutiny compared to less rigorously monitored sports like football.

The discussion also includes the implications of new technologies in doping practices, such as gene therapy and advances in AI, as well as the normalization of performance-enhancing drugs through initiatives like the Enhanced Games. Witts expresses concern over the message this sends to younger athletes and the public.

Overall, Witts aims to provide a nuanced perspective on doping, moving beyond black-and-white portrayals to better understand the chicken-and-egg dilemma of doping, performance, and the evolving landscape of sports integrity.