World Aquatics Launches Anti-Doping Review Committee in Response to Olympic Scandal Involving Chinese Swimmers

World Aquatics has formed a five-person anti-doping review committee in response to the news that 23 Chinese swimmers were allowed to compete in the Tokyo Games despite testing positive for a banned substance. The committee, consisting of Miguel Cardenal, Ken Lalo, Annabelle Williams, Florent Manaudou, and Fernando Possenti, aims to improve the understanding of the anti-doping review process within the federation and learn from this experience to better equip World Aquatics for future challenges.

The committee’s work is expected to be completed by next month. In addition to this, Wada has launched an independent review into the handling of this case, led by Swiss prosecutor Eric Cottier. The findings of this investigation are anticipated to be delivered within two months. World Aquatics hopes that this process will help alleviate any doubts about the anti-doping movement and reassure athletes ahead of the Paris Olympic Games.

Key bodies representing US athletes have called for a truly independent investigation into the matter. However, International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach has expressed full confidence in Wada’s handling of the situation. Despite this controversy, it remains unclear how it will impact Wada’s reputation as an effective anti-doping agency or its ability to enforce rules moving forward.