The World Aquatics Bureau has recently formed a five-person committee to conduct an audit of their anti-doping procedures. This decision was communicated to member federations through a letter sent last Friday. The committee, appointed by the bureau, will review the process and procedures related to doping at both World Aquatics and FINA in order to improve understanding of the anti-doping review and decision-making process within the federation, particularly in light of the Chinese doping case.
The five-person panel tasked with conducting the audit includes four-time Olympic medalist Florent Manaudou, along with Aquatics Integrity Unit Supervisory Council members Miguel Cardenal and Ken Lalo, Paralympic swimmer Annabelle Williams, and Brazilian coach Fernando Possenti. While World Aquatics was not directly involved in the Chinese doping case, they are committed to ensuring the robustness of their procedures moving forward.
The aim of this investigation is to address any doubts surrounding the anti-doping movement and reassure athletes ahead of the Paris Olympic Games. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has faced criticism for its handling of the Chinese case, which was investigated by the Chinese Anti-Doping Agency (CHINADA) and attributed to contamination. An independent review led by Swiss prosecutor Eric Cottier is currently underway.
The report from World Aquatics’ five-person panel is expected to be completed by June 30th, after which it will be reviewed by member federations before being implemented across all levels of swimming competition.