Assistant coaches raise the alarm
In February 2019, two assistant coaches who once worked with the Chinese women’s national soccer team came forward with serious allegations of doping. They claimed that the players were forced to take performance-enhancing drugs to improve their stamina and strength in the lead-up to the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Banned substances
The coaches alleged that the players were injected with EPO (erythropoietin), a hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells and can lead to increased stamina. They also alleged that the players were given clenbuterol, a drug that increases muscle mass and promotes fat loss. Both substances are banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency.
Targeted testing
In response to the allegations, the International Testing Agency (ITA) initiated a targeted testing program for the Chinese women’s national soccer team in the lead-up to the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The ITA’s testing regime involved more frequent and rigorous testing than is typically conducted for other teams.
No positive tests
The ITA’s targeted testing program did not produce any positive tests for banned substances. However, the coaches’ allegations raised serious concerns about the potential for doping within the Chinese women’s national soccer team and led to the US Federal Probe.
FIFA investigation
In addition to the ITA’s investigation, FIFA has also initiated an investigation into the allegations of doping within the Chinese women’s national soccer team. FIFA’s investigation is ongoing, and it is unclear when it will be completed.
Federal probe launched
In June 2021, the US Department of Justice launched a federal probe into the allegations of doping within the Chinese women’s national soccer team. The probe is being led by the US Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York and is focusing on whether the Chinese government was involved in a systematic doping program.
Multiple agencies involved
The federal probe is being conducted in coordination with multiple other US government agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
Impact on 2021 Olympics
The US Federal Probe into the allegations of doping within the Chinese women’s national soccer team could have a significant impact on the team’s participation in the 2021 Olympics. If the probe uncovers evidence of a systemic doping program, the Chinese team could be banned from the Olympics or face other sanctions.
Kind regards E. Thompson
