The main responsibilities of the person appointed to the new independent contractor position will be to report to the WADA Executive Committee and remain in touch with WADA’s Athlete Committee and its chair on issues of mutual interest.

The WADA Executive Committee had endorsed a one-year pilot project proposal for an Athletes’ Anti-Doping Ombudsman in November last year.

The main elements of the proposal included committing a budget for the recruitment process, setting up regulatory documents and establishing terms of reference ahead of the launch in Europe in 2022.

"WADA is pleased to support its Athlete Committee in promoting this unique and challenging opportunity for an independent Athletes’ Anti-Doping Ombuds," said WADA President Witold Bańka.

"This person will help pilot the Ombuds Program in Europe for possible expansion to other regions following its implementation.

"The Program is fully aligned with WADA’s commitment to be more athlete-centred and has the potential to be very impactful in helping athletes navigate the anti-doping system.

"This is yet another innovative way that our Athlete Committee is empowering athletes and promoting fairness in anti-doping."

WADA Athlete Committee chair Ben Sandford said: "WADA’s Athlete Committee is seeking the right person with the necessary professional experience and competence to bring the Athletes’ Anti-Doping Ombuds Program to life.

"The Ombuds Program will be a neutral, impartial dispute resolution practice providing confidential and informal assistance to athletes bound by anti-doping rules under the World Anti-Doping Code.

Sandford also believes that the ombudsman service will provide the athletes and the broader anti-doping community with all necessary services.

"The Ombuds will advocate for fairness versus advocating for any individual or organization, act as a source of information and referral, aid in answering questions, and assist in the resolution of concerns and critical situations."