US Withholds Funds, Calls for WADA Audit

The United States has withheld its 2024 dues payment of $3.6 million to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), citing dissatisfaction with WADA's handling of doping cases, particularly involving 23 Chinese swimmers who tested positive before the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. The US demands reforms and transparency from WADA and has called for an independent audit of its operations. This decision results in the US losing its seat on WADA's executive board as per WADA's statutes. The US Anti-Doping Agency supports the government's decision, emphasizing the need to protect athletes' rights and ensure fair competition. The ongoing dispute has highlighted geopolitical tensions and calls for significant reform within WADA to restore trust in the global anti-doping system.