WADA Cleared of Bias Amid Controversial Doping Allegations

An independent investigation has cleared the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) of mishandling or favoritism in the case involving 23 Chinese swimmers who tested positive for banned substances. The investigation found no evidence supporting claims of bias or irregularities in WADA's handling of the case, affirming its decision not to appeal the Chinese findings.

An independent investigation has exonerated the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) from allegations of mishandling and favoring 23 Chinese swimmers who tested positive for banned substances. According to a report by Swiss prosecutor Eric Cottier, there was no indication that WADA showed bias towards the athletes, who were cleared by a Chinese probe attributing their positive tests to contamination.

Cottier's findings reinforced WADA's stance, asserting that all review procedures followed by both WADA and the China Anti-Doping Agency (CHINADA) were proper and thoroughly addressed the relevant issues. He stated that the decision not to appeal CHINADA's findings was reasonable and compliant with applicable rules.

Despite this, critics like Travis Tygart, head of the United States Anti-Doping Agency, remain skeptical. Tygart has called for a U.S.-backed investigation, expressing distrust in the WADA-led process, while U.S. lawmakers have urged the Department of Justice to conduct their investigations. WADA President Witold Banka condemned these actions as politically motivated, emphasizing WADA's commitment to law-based processes and fair treatment of all stakeholders.

(With inputs from agencies.)