Drugs in Sport: Wada claims criminals fuelling doping

Howman (right) says: 'The criminal underworld is providing prohibited substances' (AFP PHOTO / FABRICE COFFRINI)

David Howman, the head of the World Anti-Doping Agency, claimed yesterday that the "criminal underworld" is a growing threat to sporting integrity.

"My inside information has it that the underworld is now controlling a significant proportion of world sport," he said, citing Interpol as the source of his information.

"The criminal underworld is providing prohibited substances. For $100 you might get a return back of between $10,000 and $100,000. That's a good return on your investment. They are also involved in money-laundering and bribery."