New Chinese doping controversy surfaces during Paris Olympic swimming events

The New York Times reported Tuesday that two elite Chinese swimmers, including one who is competing in Paris at the Olympics, tested positive for a strong anabolic steroid two years ago.

However, the Times reported that the Chinese cleared both swimmers, saying the two unknowingly ingested the steroids that were in a contaminated hamburger served at a restaurant in Beijing. The clearance came late last year leaving at least one eligible to compete in Paris.

The Times said one of the swimmers is Tang Muhan. She is one of the country’s top sprint freestylers and is believed to be on China’s 4X200 relay. The prelims for the event start Thursday. The Chinese swimmers won the gold medal in Tokyo so they are the defending champions in the relay. Muhan was a member of that relay in Tokyo.

The Olympic swimming competition continues this week. Traditionally, it’s one of the most watched sports at the Olympics.

The Chinese authorities said its investigation revealed that only a miniscule amount of the steroid showed up in the drug screens. That’s why they deemed both positives due to food contamination.

Times reported that Chinese swimmers have been cleared at least 3 times

The Times pointed out that the decision to clear the Chinese swimmers was at least the third time the country has blamed contamination for a positive drug screen. Critics told the site that China is giving the appearance of looking the other way.

“I saw the report this morning,” said Katie Ledecky, an American distance swimmer who is one of the most decorated Olympics, ever.

“I think I’ve made my thoughts clear. It’s disappointing.”

Other swimmers are concerned about what might be happening within the Chinese team. Back in 2021, as athletes prepared for the delayed Tokyo Games, 11 Chinese swimmers tested positive for a banned substance. Still, they competed in Tokyo, with winning three gold medals.

One of those Chinese swimmers from 2021 is Zhang Yufeit, who already has won two bronze medals in Paris. She was third in the 100 fly and swam a leg on the 4X100 free relay.