Chinese swimmers participating in the Paris Olympic Games will face significantly more rigorous drug testing compared to athletes from other nations. This decision follows revelations that 23 Chinese swimmers tested positive for a banned substance prior to the Tokyo Games but were still allowed to compete.

Of the 23 swimmers who tested positive for trimetazidine (TMZ), a heart medication, at a training camp seven months before the postponed 2021 Games, 11 have been selected for the Paris Olympics. This has raised concerns and led to increased scrutiny of doping controls.

World Aquatics, the sport’s governing body, acknowledged that the handling of the situation has “weakened” trust in the anti-doping system. To address these concerns, the International Testing Agency (ITA) has committed to testing Chinese athletes eight times between the start of 2024 and the Paris Games, which is double the standard frequency.

Additionally, efforts will be made to ensure that the tests on Chinese athletes are conducted by an independent authority rather than the China Anti-Doping Agency (Chinada). Moreover, the analysis of these tests is expected to take place outside of China to further ensure transparency and credibility.

The move comes as World Aquatics aims to restore confidence among athletes, particularly after comments from Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian, who expressed distrust in the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA)’s ability to enforce its policies effectively.

US anti-doping authorities have also criticized WADA, which has responded by threatening legal action against its detractors. Despite these controversies, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has expressed “full confidence” in WADA and urged sporting bodies to show “respect” for the anti-doping organization.

As preparations for the Paris Olympics intensify, these measures are seen as crucial steps to ensure fair competition and maintain the integrity of the sport. The increased testing and independent oversight are intended to reassure athletes and stakeholders that doping violations will be rigorously monitored and addressed.