Chinese Swimmers Cleared After Testing Positive for Banned Drug Before Tokyo Olympics

In a recent investigation, it was revealed that 23 Chinese swimmers had tested positive for a banned drug seven months before the Tokyo Olympics. Despite this, they were secretly cleared and allowed to continue competing. The incident has exposed a deep rift within the sport and has led to new criticism of the global authority overseeing drug testing.

Details of the Episode

The investigation uncovered that the Chinese swimmers, including nearly half of the team sent to the Tokyo Games, tested positive for a banned prescription heart medicine. This medicine can enhance athletes' stamina and reduce recovery times.

Reactions and Criticism

Following the disclosure of this previously secret incident, athletes, coaches, and anti-doping advocates have expressed strong reactions. An American Olympian felt that her team had been unfairly treated in a race won by China. Meanwhile, a British gold medalist called for a lifetime ban for the involved swimmers on social media.

Feud Among Officials

A feud between officials at the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), the global regulator, and their U.S. counterparts has been brought into the open following this scandal. This has led to a series of caustic statements and legal threats between the two parties.