The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is investigating allegations made in The Times that China concealed six doping tests from late 2015 and early 2016 ahead of next month’s Chinese Olympic trials. The Times reported that it was given the details of the positive tests by a whistleblower, who feared that the positive tests were being delayed until after the Olympic trails.

Three of the swimmers tested positive for clenbuterol in competition, reports Xinhua, while three tested positive for hydrochlorothiazide. “We did not cover up any facts,” Zhao Jian, Deputy Director of the Chinese Anti-Doping Agency (CHINADA), told the news agency. “The reason for the CSA yet to make public the names and information of the three swimmers who were tested positive for hydrochlorothiazide is that the cases are still under investigation”.

‘The Times provided the relevant information to WADA, which we are currently scrutinising to determine the appropriate next steps’, read WADA’s statement. ‘We are aware that FINA, swimming’s global governing body, has confirmed that it is investigating these cases […] The Times article also cited concerns raised by the whistleblowers that they “were unable to contact WADA due to state surveillance”.

‘WADA also notes The Times’ other allegations concerning a sanctioned coach who may still be coaching in China; along with, suggestions of infrequent testing of Chinese swimmers training in Australia’, continues WADA’s statement. ‘In addition to asking the newspaper for information to corroborate these allegations, the Agency is discussing the matter with FINA and the relevant anti-doping authorities in China’.