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This move underlined FIFA's unconditional support for the fight against doping and its respect for the World Anti-Doping Code.

In his speech, WADA Chairman Richard POUND had assured the Congress that the World Anti-Doping Code would fully recognise the points stipulated by FIFA, which included individual case management and flexible sanctions. Conversely, WADA has the right to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne. Any future amendments to the Code will be made in consultation with the sports federations.

FIFA President Joseph S. BLATTER, WADA Chairman Richard Pound and IOC President Dr Jacques ROGGE have therefore signed the declaration, which reads as follows:

"The 54th Ordinary FIFA Congress in Paris on 20 and 21 May 2004 is aware of the importance and necessity of the fight against doping.

In light of the excellent cooperation with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), FIFA declares its unconditional support for the fight against doping and its respect for the World Anti-Doping Code.

Based on the address made by WADA Chairman Richard W. Pound to the 54th Ordinary FIFA Congress, FIFA advocates continued collaboration with WADA in the fight against doping, in the knowledge that WADA will respect the autonomy of international sports federations, including FIFA.

In the presence of the President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Dr Jacques Rogge and the Chairman of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), FIFA is proud to sign this declaration at its Centennial Congress, thereby officially ratifying its cooperation with WADA."