
China's Silence on Doping Scandal Raises Concerns Ahead of Paris Olympics
China shifts to silence amid widespread doping accusations, reflecting high stakes before Paris Olympics, and heavy investment in swimming.

In light of recent doping allegations against 23 elite Chinese swimmers, the Chinese government seems to have taken a different approach compared to past incidents.
Silence and Limited Media Coverage
Unlike previous incidents, where the government mobilized its propaganda apparatus to defend accused athletes, this time China has opted for virtual silence. Domestic media coverage has been notably limited, with only a few official statements being released and online discussions on the matter being meticulously scrubbed and restricted.
Political Sensitivity and Stakes for China
Experts believe that this change in tactic reflects the high stakes for China, especially with the upcoming Paris Olympic Games. It has been revealed that 11 of the 23 swimmers who tested positive for banned substances are still named in the squad heading to Paris. Swimming is a highly regarded sport in China, and Beijing has heavily invested in it over the years to establish the country as an Olympic powerhouse.
Share news