Craig Reedie, Who Fought Doping in Global Sport, Dies at 84

April 8, 2026 - 18:14

Sir Craig Reedie, a towering figure in the fight for clean international sport, has died at the age of 84. The Scottish sports administrator is best remembered for his tenure as President of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) during one of its most challenging periods.

Reedie was at the helm of WADA in 2015 and 2016 when a meticulously documented, state-sponsored doping program within Russian athletics was exposed. The scandal represented the most systemic corruption in modern sports history, implicating athletes, coaches, and government officials. Reedie’s leadership was pivotal in navigating the ensuing crisis, which led to widespread sanctions against Russian sports bodies.

His handling of the situation, however, drew significant criticism from some athletes and national anti-doping organizations. They argued WADA’s response was not severe enough, creating a complex legacy for the former International Olympic Committee vice-president. Despite the blowback, Reedie remained a steadfast advocate for integrity, having been instrumental in establishing the World Anti-Doping Code in 2003. His decades of service fundamentally shaped the global system that seeks to protect fair competition for athletes worldwide.