Passing of global anti-doping pioneer Harri Syväsalmi
Sport Integrity Australia would like to acknowledge the passing of Harri Syväsalmi, a pioneer in the anti-doping community.
Mr Syväsalmi who served as the first Director General of the World Ant-Doping Agency (WADA) passed away on 5 August in his home country, Finland.
With almost 50 years of experience in the sports integrity space globally, his legacy cannot be understated. While holding top positions in sports Mr Syväsalmi laid foundations for globally unified anti-doping activities.
As a well-known and distinguished international leader in the field he has always been a believer in the mission of Sport Integrity Australia.
Mr Syväsalmi was a key player in the establishment of the Finnish Center for Integrity in Sports (FINCIS) and served as the organisation’s Secretary General in 2016–2018.
Mr Syväsalmi’s friendship was an integral part in building the Sport Integrity Australia agency we have today, it allowed us to seek his support and guidance on matters relating to integrity matters in sport.
We would like to send our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this time.
