The Chinese Anti-Doping Agency (CHINADA) has strongly criticized the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) and The New York Times for what it calls \"false claims\" regarding a contamination case involving 23 Chinese swimmers. This statement follows the presentation of the final report by Independent Prosecutor Eric Cottier to the World Anti-Doping Agency's (WADA) executive committee.
CHINADA emphasized the thoroughness and transparency of its investigation, asserting there was no cover-up as alleged by USADA, The New York Times, and German broadcaster ARD. \"The Independent Prosecutor's final report once again shows the reasonableness of CHINADA's investigation into and decision on the cases,\" the statement read. \"The existing anti-doping system is open, transparent and trustworthy to athletes worldwide.\"
The agency defended WADA's decision not to appeal the cases, stating there was no favoritism or external interference, including from CHINADA or Chinese authorities. CHINADA also pointed to its collaborative efforts with WADA and FINA (now World Aquatics) during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Furthermore, CHINADA accused USADA of politicizing the issue by invoking the Rodchenkov Anti-Doping Act to pursue a \"long-arm jurisdiction\" over the case. \"Such a 'double standard' behavior has aroused widespread concern in the international community,\" the agency stated.
In response to the "purple faces" controversy observed during the Paris Olympics, CHINADA called for targeted testing of American swimmers. They highlighted the unique occurrence of the purple discoloration among American athletes and suggested possible links to prohibited substances, urging anti-doping organizations to investigate further.
Reference(s):
China condemns 'false claims' about swimmers' contamination case
cgtn.com