Victor Conte, BALCO Founder, Dies at 75

Victor Conte, a pivotal figure in one of sports’ biggest performance-enhancing drug scandals, has passed away at the age of 75. His company, Scientific Nutrition for Advanced Conditioning (SNAC), confirmed the news, revealing he had been battling pancreatic cancer.

“We are heartbroken by the passing of a fearless leader,” the company’s statement expressed. “We honor his wishes. SNAC and his legacy will remain strong and eternal. We love you, Conte!”

Conte made headlines back in 2003 when his company BALCO faced a federal investigation into steroid distribution that impacted several major sports leagues, particularly Major League Baseball. In 2005, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges related to distributing steroids and money laundering. He admitted to supplying performance-enhancing drugs to renowned athletes, including baseball’s Barry Bonds and Olympic champion Marion Jones.

Despite the controversy, Conte reflected on his past achievements in a Netflix documentary, stating, “When Marion Jones crosses the finish line to win a gold medal, when Barry Bonds hits a home run, all of those great accomplishments are things I will always be proud of.”

Following his sentence, which included four months in a low-security federal prison, Conte transitioned to developing and selling natural supplements through SNAC. While remaining involved in sports, he advised notable boxers such as Terrence “Bud” Crawford and Claressa Shields. However, some skepticism surrounded Crawford during a recent fight, with questions arising about Conte’s influence on the team’s performance.

Conte, diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in May, continued to work with athletes even from his hospital bed in his last months. His complex legacy leaves room for varied opinions, particularly regarding his role in sports history.