A case study analysis of the 2012 USADA investigation of Lance Armstrong: the role of Social Network Analysis in identifying doping networks and activities

This project examined key findings of the US Anti-Doping Agency 2012 Reasoned Decision surrounding the sports doping network of Lance Armstrong.

Following a preliminary analysis of the data, key themes emerged and were critical to developing a holistic understanding of sports doping networks and activities. These included: authority, group absolution, predisposition of the actor; distance to victim; as well as strategy, plan and execution as well as resilience and sustainability.

A social network analysis, using i2 Analyst Notebook software, of the interconnections between officials, event organisers, sponsors, teams, support staff and riders has provided valuable insight into a systemic doping culture that has plagued international cycling for decades. During the course of this analysis a number of relevant criminological and organisational theories have emerged, such as: rational choice theory, contagion theory and routine activity theory.

Additional theories which may be used to explain the nature, extent and sustainability of Armstrong’s doping network include; Structure and Process Theory and Social Network Theory. SNT also highlights strengths and vulnerabilities in the network as the research seeks to identify critical elements of network resilience.

Project Leader: Dr Peter Bell (Griffith University)

Project Team: Adjunct Professor Robyn Keast (Queensland University of Technology); Associate Professor Mark Lauchs (Queensland University of Technology)

Industry Partners: Queensland Academy of Sport; Australian Institute of Sport

Project Value: $15,000