The World Anti-Doping Agency has requested an independent prosecutor to conduct a comprehensive examination of how the organization managed the China no-fault contamination incident affecting 23 swimmers during the Tokyo Olympics. This move comes as the organization’s integrity and reputation face scrutiny and criticism.
British triple Olympic swimming champion Adam Peaty has voiced concerns about WADA’s “lack of transparency” amid allegations that Chinese swimmers were allowed to participate in the postponed 2021 Games despite testing positive for a banned substance.
China’s swimming team, consisting of 30 members, secured six medals in Tokyo, including three golds.
An investigation conducted jointly by German TV channel ARD and the New York Times revealed last week that the majority of the Chinese swimming team had tested positive seven months earlier for trimetazidine, a heart drug known to enhance performance.
WADA had previously stated that, after reviewing “all available scientific evidence and intelligence,” there was “no basis” under its code to dispute the findings of the China Anti-Doping Agency (CHINADA) regarding “environmental contamination.” This position was also endorsed by World Aquatics.
WADA President Witold Banka stated, “WADA’s integrity and reputation are under attack. In recent days, WADA has been unfairly accused of bias in favor of China for not appealing the CHINADA case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.”
“We continue to refute the unfounded accusations, and we are relieved to entrust these inquiries to an experienced, esteemed, and impartial prosecutor.”
As part of the review, Cottier will be tasked with providing his assessment regarding any signs of bias towards China, “undue interference, or other impropriety” in WADA’s evaluation of CHINADA’s decision not to pursue anti-doping rule violations against the 23 swimmers.
After Cottier’s findings are concluded, WADA’s executive committee will “evaluate it and determine the appropriate next steps,” the governing body added.
