The fight against doping is a long-term battle. There is no room for complacency, but we are making progress.
Analysis
The IOC's official press release dated August 2004 records President Jacques Rogge saying, “The fight against doping is a long‑term battle. There is no room for complacency, but we are making progress.” The wording matches the statement in question. No evidence suggests the quote was altered or fabricated.
Background
In the early 2000s the IOC intensified its anti‑doping programme, launching the World Anti‑Doping Agency (WADA) in 1999 and increasing testing. Rogge, as IOC President, routinely addressed progress and challenges at press briefings.
Verdict summary
Jacques Rogge made the quoted statement at a 2004 anti‑doping press conference.
Sources consulted
— International Olympic Committee, Press Release – “IOC President Rogge on Anti‑Doping” (August 2004)
— BBC Sport, “Olympics: Rogge stresses anti‑doping fight” (2004)
— World Anti‑Doping Agency (WADA) archive, statements by Jacques Rogge, 2004