ASOIF Warns US Investigation into Chinese Doping Case could Impact Future Sporting Events

The United States’ investigation into a doping case involving 23 Chinese swimmers has raised concerns from the Association of Summer Olympic International Federations (ASOIF) about the country’s future as a host for sporting events. Last week, World Aquatics executive director Brent Nowicki was subpoenaed by the US government to testify in the case, which involves how the Chinese swimmers avoided punishment after testing positive and then competed in the Tokyo Olympics.

The ASOIF expressed worry about the implications of the US investigation on international sporting relations, citing fears among federations about sending officials to the US over potential arrests. The memories of FIFA officials being arrested on corruption charges in 2015 in Zurich are still fresh, and the IOC and member federations want to avoid a similar situation.

The ASOIF called for clarification from the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee and the organizers of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics regarding their stance on WADA, which has faced criticism from the US Anti-Doping Agency chief Travis Tygart. The US investigation falls under the Rodchenkov Act, which allows US law enforcement jurisdiction over international sporting events involving American athletes.

The ASOIF expressed concerns about the impact of the US investigation on WADA’s independence and the global anti-doping system. The investigation could potentially discourage international federations from allocating future events to the US. The situation continues to evolve, and stakeholders are closely monitoring developments in this high-stakes doping case.