Former NASCAR executive John Bobo has joined USADA as its chief operating and innovation officer ©LinkedIn

The United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) has officially announced John Bobo has joined it as its new chief operating and innovation officer (COIO).

Bobo will oversee the doping control operations and Olympic and Paralympic testing programme run by the Colorado Springs-based USADA, while also leading innovation efforts in technology, software development, and data security.

Bobo most recently served as vice-president for business development at health technology company Oura Ring, Inc. heading up research and sports partnerships.

Before that, the University of Tennessee graduate spent 11 years at NASCAR, including as vice-president of racing operations, where he led the organisation’s anti-doping programme.

"John has a passion for ensuring fairness in sport and has long been an advocate for innovation that supports the wellbeing of athletes," said USADA chief executive Travis T. Tygart.

"Having extensive experience in leading and building teams for success, John will be a tremendous asset in USADA’s future objectives, and we’re thrilled to have him join our team."

John Bobo will be responsible for, among other things, for USADA's Olympic and Paralympic drugs testing programme ©USADA
John Bobo will be responsible for, among other things, for USADA's Olympic and Paralympic drugs testing programme ©USADA

Bobo began his career as an assistant district attorney general for the 11th Judicial District in Chattanooga in Tennessee, where he prosecuted a variety of cases, including first degree murder and narcotics cases.

Bobo also spent several years in the US Department of Transportation, most notably as director of the Office of Drug & Alcohol Abuse Policy & Compliance.

Bobo will guide USADA’s collaboration with partners to ensure clean sport as the US hosts many international events in the coming years, including the FISU Winter World University Games, which are due to open in Lake Placid today.

Other major events include the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the US is co-hosting with Canada and Mexico, the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.