LAUSANNE, Switzerland (AP) -- Four-time World champion Yulia Efimova of Russia has had her provisional doping suspension lifted by swimming’s governing body.
FINA says it is following a recommendation from the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), which is conducting further scientific research on Meldonium.
Efimova said she tested positive for meldonium earlier this year, but she professed her innocence. The endurance-boosting drug was banned on Jan. 1.
WADA is researching whether a low concentration of meldonium can indicate whether athletes did not take it after Jan. 1
FINA “clarifies that this case is not closed. Following the outcome of WADA’s scientific studies and subsequent indication on this matter, the FINA Doping Panel will take a decision.”
Efimova is considered Russia’s top medal hope in swimming for the Rio Olympics.