Government probe finds doping widespread in Australian sport

SYDNEY (AFP) - A year-long government investigation on Thursday concluded drug use is widespread in Australian sport with links to organised crime which may have led to match-fixing.

The Australian Crime Commission probe identified widespread use of prohibited substances including peptides, hormones and illicit drugs in professional sport.

It said it had identified criminal networks involved in the distribution of illegal substances, and the links may have resulted in match-fixing and fraudulent manipulation of betting markets.

The findings indicated that sports scientists, coaches, support staff as well as doctors and pharmacists were involved in the provision of drugs.