The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is under scrutiny after 23 Chinese swimmers tested positive for a prescription heart drug, trimetazidine (TMZ), ahead of the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. Despite the positive tests, the swimmers were not sanctioned as Chinese authorities claimed the cases were due to food contamination. This decision has sparked controversy and accusations of a potential cover-up.
In response to the backlash, WADA has asked an independent prosecutor, former Swiss public prosecutor Eric Cottier, to review their handling of the case. The organisation has also announced plans to send a compliance audit team to China to assess the country’s anti-doping program run by CHINADA.
WADA President Witold Banka stated, “WADA’s integrity and reputation is under attack. We continue to reject the false accusations and we are pleased to be able to put these questions into the hands of an experienced, respected and independent prosecutor.”
Cottier will have full access to all files and documents related to the case and will be tasked with evaluating any bias towards China or undue interference in the handling of the case. He will also determine if the decision not to challenge the verdict of CHINADA was reasonable.
The team traveling to China will include independent auditors from the anti-doping community as part of WADA’s regular compliance monitoring program. WADA Director General Olivier Niggli emphasized the importance of addressing the matter promptly before the upcoming Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games.
While Beijing has dismissed reports of the case as “fake news,” the investigation by WADA and the independent prosecutor aims to provide clarity and ensure transparency in the handling of anti-doping cases.