WADA Defends Handling of Chinese Swimmers’ Doping Case and Accuses USADA of Undermining Anti-Doping Efforts

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has been at the center of a controversy involving 23 Chinese swimmers and the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA). WADA has vehemently defended its handling of the case, denying any cover-up and accusing USADA of undermining the global anti-doping efforts.

Following a New York Times report that revealed Chinese swimmers tested positive for a banned substance before the Tokyo Olympics, WADA has faced criticism and allegations of favoritism towards China. However, during a virtual meeting of its Foundation Board, WADA lashed out at USADA and its chief Travis Tygart, calling them hypocrites.

Former IOC member Dick Pound, who co-founded WADA, condemned Tygart for spreading lies and distortions, suggesting that USADA’s accusations were politically motivated. WADA maintained that it followed anti-doping rules and had no evidence to challenge China’s findings, which stated that the positive tests were due to contamination.

In response, Tygart criticized WADA for lack of transparency and urged for immediate reform in the global anti-doping system. He raised concerns about WADA’s decision to keep information about the positive tests under wraps, calling it a breach of trust.

WADA President Witold Banka defended the organization, pointing out that U.S. athletes are among the least tested globally. He also highlighted cases of environmental contamination in the U.S. and inconsistencies in rule implementation.

The controversy has prompted WADA to launch an independent review led by Swiss prosecutor Eric Cottier. The clash between WADA and USADA underscores the challenges and complexities in the fight against doping in sports, raising questions about transparency and accountability in the anti-doping system. (This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed – Reuters)