The New York Times recently uncovered a shocking revelation regarding the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, where 23 top Chinese swimmers tested positive for a banned substance just months before the Games. Despite this, the athletes were cleared by China’s antidoping authorities and the World Anti-Doping Agency, allowing them to compete and ultimately win medals.
The investigation by The Times identified five events in which these Chinese swimmers who had tested positive for doping won medals, including the Women’s 100-meter butterfly, Women’s 200-meter butterfly, Women’s 200-meter freestyle relay, Men’s 200-meter individual medley, and the Mixed 4×100-meter medley relay. These medals were won at the expense of other athletes who finished behind them, raising questions about the fairness of the competition.
Both Chinese antidoping officials and the World Anti-Doping Agency defended their actions in handling the case, stating that the swimmers had ingested the banned substance unknowingly and in small amounts. Despite criticism, WADA stood by its decision not to take further action, citing a lack of credible evidence to challenge China’s version of events.
The International Olympic Committee declined to comment on the positive tests, emphasizing that anti-doping matters are independent from the IOC and referring questions to WADA. As of now, there is no indication that the results of the races will be affected or that the medals will be reallocated, leaving many to question the integrity of the Olympic competition.
