The International Testing Agency was formed in 2018 to prevent doping through anti-doping programmes ©USADA

The International Testing Agency (ITA) and the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) met at the USADA headquarters in the build-up to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics to discuss ways to prevent doping in sport.

"We thank USADA for welcoming the ITA delegation for this very constructive series of meetings in their headquarters,” said ITA director general Benjamin Cohen.

"Building and maintaining effective and trusted partnerships is key to our anti-doping efforts.

"Leveraging the power of cooperation is not only one of the main objectives of the ITA 2023-2026 Strategic Plan, it is also something we look forward to doing hand-in-hand with USADA for the benefit of US and international athletes."

United States Anti-Doping Agency chief executive Travis Tygart said the conversations with the ITA were extremely important to protect the integrity of sport ©Getty Images
United States Anti-Doping Agency chief executive Travis Tygart said the conversations with the ITA were extremely important to protect the integrity of sport ©Getty Images

The two organisations discussed ways in which they can create an extensive programme that provides increased efficiency, scientific collaboration, athlete education, and other factors that can prevent doping.

The ITA and USADA worked together to deliver a successful anti-doping programme during the 2022 World Games, held in Birmingham, Alabama.

"We were honoured to host the ITA for extremely important conversations that will help both organisations better serve clean athletes and protect the integrity of sport," said USADA chief executive Travis Tygart.

"This collaboration between trusted partners is key to the future of clean sport and we always welcome these opportunities to work together to advance anti-doping best practices."

The 2028 Olympics are scheduled to take place from July 14 to 30, with the 2028 Paralympics set to follow from August 15 to 27.