The heightened scrutiny comes as part of a robust testing program by the International Testing Agency, covering both in-competition and out-of-competition checks. Since January 2025, 4,018 tests have been conducted on participating athletes, averaging 2 tests per competitor overall.
Officials emphasize the focus on "high-risk" sports and nations with historical doping concerns, though FINA denies targeting specific countries. "Our protocols prioritize fairness, using data to identify testing needs," a spokesperson stated, noting the program aligns with global anti-doping standards.
Reactions are mixed. Chinese and Russian teams call the disparity "unfair," while Western nations praise stricter measures. The data highlights ongoing tensions between rigorous testing and perceptions of bias in global sports governance.
With the championships running through August 3, all eyes remain on whether the intensified checks will ensure a clean event—or spark debates over equitable treatment in anti-doping efforts.
