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The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is appalled by the outrageous, completely false and defamatory comments made by the CEO of the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA), Travis Tygart, who has made very serious allegations against WADA in relation to Case 23 swimmers from China reported by the media earlier today.
Mr Tygart’s allegations are politically motivated and are made to undermine WADA’s work to protect clean sport around the world. WADA notes that the damaging comments have been delivered without any evidence whatsoever.
The truth of the matter is that according to all available scientific evidence and information, which was thoroughly collected, evaluated and tested by leading anti-doping experts, WADA had no basis to question the environmental contamination explanation. At all times, WADA acted in good faith, in accordance with due process and following the advice of external counsel when it decided not to appeal this case. In the absence of other evidence, WADA, even today, stands by the results of its rigorous scientific investigation as well as the approach of its Intelligence and Research Department. WADA’s statement April 20 describes in more detail the Agency’s position on this file.
In his statement it appears that Mr Tygart does not accept the finding of environmental contamination in this case, although he cannot say why. However, it is true that in the United States, WADA has also accepted USADA’s similar conclusions regarding contamination involving some US athletes. Mr. Tygart should realize that it’s not just American athletes who can fall victim to no-fault contamination situations.
USADA contacted WADA in early 2023 based on a tip they had received about an alleged cover-up involving these cases, but unfortunately were unable to provide any evidence.
It should be noted that following Mr. Tygart’s false allegations, WADA has no choice but to refer the matter to its legal counsel for further action