The IOC confirmed on its website Saturday night that unannounced
out-of-competition doping tests have been conducted on a number of
Austrian cross country and biathlon athletes.
"The IOC has acted on information it received in a report given
to it by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) which indicates the
possible presence of Walther Mayer in the private accommodation of
the Austrian biathlon and cross country teams," said the
statement.
"Given that Mr. Mayer has been declared ineligible to
participate in all Olympic Games up to and including Vancouver
2010, based on his involvement in blood manipulation offences
committed in Salt Lake City 2002, the IOC is fulfilling its
responsibility to conduct anti-doping controls on athletes who
might have been under his influence.
"The IOC can also confirm that it transmitted the WADA report to
the Italian authorities for their information and subsequent follow
up as they deem appropriate."
(Xinhua News Agency February 19, 2006)