World Aquatics Audit Clears Chinese Swimmers of Mismanagement Allegations

A World Aquatics audit, supported by Swiss prosecutor Eric Cottier's independent investigation, concluded no mismanagement in handling Chinese swimmers' positive drug tests, recommending measures to boost athlete confidence in anti-doping practices. U.S. officials demand further hearings on the matter ahead of upcoming competitions.

A recent audit by World Aquatics has concluded that there was no mismanagement or cover-up in the handling of positive drug tests involving Chinese swimmers. Supported by an independent investigation conducted by Swiss prosecutor Eric Cottier, the audit also made several recommendations to restore athlete confidence in the anti-doping system.

According to the audit, formerly known as FINA, protocols were properly followed in reviewing the TMZ (trimetazidine) case and deciding not to appeal decisions made by China's anti-doping agency, CHINADA. The findings have not eased concerns of U.S. officials, who continue to demand a full hearing and thorough investigation into why multiple Chinese swimmers tested positive for TMZ ahead of the Tokyo Olympics.

Bill Bock, a U.S. member of the Anti-Doping Advisory Body of the World Aquatics Integrity Unit, questioned the decision to appoint an ad hoc committee rather than allowing ADAB to conduct the review. Bock and other U.S. officials are calling for immediate hearings for the 23 positive cases. Among the audit's recommendations were setting time limits for national anti-doping agencies to impose provisional suspensions and ensuring all pending cases are resolved prior to World Aquatic competitions. WADA has expressed support for strengthening the anti-doping code, and World Aquatics noted increased testing frequencies for athletes from specific nations, with samples tested in external labs.

(With inputs from agencies.)