China has adopted a new strategy of virtual silence in response to accusations of doping against 23 elite Chinese swimmers before the 2021 Olympic Games, in contrast to past tactics of mobilizing propaganda to defend athletes. The issue is being debated globally, including in Congress, but domestic media coverage in China has been limited, with online discussions rigorously censored.
Experts suggest that China’s restrained response reflects the high stakes involved weeks before the Paris Olympics, given that 11 of the swimmers accused of doping are set to compete. China has denied any wrongdoing, and views such accusations as embarrassing, with sports playing a crucial role in promoting the image of the ruling Chinese Communist Party.
While state media coverage has been minimal, Chinese authorities have released statements denying the doping allegations and questioning the ethics of media outlets reporting on the issue. Online discussions on Chinese social media platforms have been heavily censored, with users rallying around accused athletes in the past.
The scandal raises questions about the competency of swimming officials and the Chinese sports system in managing its athletes. The controversy surrounding the 23 swimmers has drawn comparisons to past doping allegations involving high-profile Chinese athletes, marking a shift in China’s handling of such sensitive issues. Critics argue that China did not follow standard protocols in handling the positive drug tests and failed to disclose them publicly.
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