“We are thrilled the U.S. will host the 2034 Winter Games in Salt Lake and we will do everything in our authority to ensure those Games are fair and clean, as what country wants to invest in fraudulent Games that are not played by the rules? Of course, we do have full respect for the World Anti-Doping Code, which is why we are so shocked by WADA leadership’s decision to turn their back on the rules in the case of the 23 Chinese swimmers who tested positive and to allow China to cover them up. It is shocking to see the IOC itself stooping to threats in an apparent effort to silence those seeking answers to what are now known as facts. It seems more apparent than ever that WADA violated the rules and needs accountability and reform to truly be the global watchdog that clean athletes need. Today’s demonstration further showed that as it stands today, WADA is just a sport lapdog, and clean athletes have little chance. If WADA has nothing to hide, they would welcome the chance to answer questions, not run and hide. The IOC should be leading the charge to protect clean sport, and it will be devastating to clean athletes around the globe to see a blind eye turned toward these positive tests. We will continue to call for a strong, independent WADA and for transparency over threats. There are basic unanswered questions of how WADA allowed China to sweep 23 tests under the rug, and athletes and the public still deserve answers.”
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