WADA Cleared in Chinese Swimmers' Doping Case, But Calls for Rule Strengthening

Investigator finds no favoritism in WADA's handling of the case but highlights procedural lapses and the need for improved anti-doping protocols.

A final report confirmed that WADA acted independently and professionally in the case of 23 Chinese swimmers who tested positive for a banned substance.
Swiss prosecutor Eric Cottier, who led the investigation, found no evidence of favoritism towards China but criticized WADA's silence and procedural lapses.
The report highlighted that some anti-doping protocols were not followed by the Chinese anti-doping agency, though this did not alter the case outcomes.
Cottier noted that the handling of the case was largely private, which goes against customary transparency practices in such significant cases.
WADA acknowledged the need for stronger rules and better administrative processes, establishing a working group to address these issues.