Report: Chong Wei verdict could take several days

AMSTERDAM: Datuk Lee Chong Wei’s long-awaited doping hearing opened before a three-member Badminton World Federation (BWF) panel on Saturday in Amsterdam, where the former world No. 1 has vowed to clear his name.

“The hearing is starting” at a hotel near Schiphol International Airport, the official, who declined to be named, told AFP.

Chong Wei’s London-based lawyer Mike Morgan refused to comment before the hearing started behind closed doors, with the press being barred access to the hotel.

The BWF also declined to comment, with the federation’s Gayle Alleyne telling AFP: “At the appropriate time, BWF will communicate as required.”

However, the official said no verdict was expected on Saturday, as the panel needed several days to reach a finding and write their report.

“It’s a highly technical issue,” the official added.

Last month, two-time Olympic silver medallist Lee told the The Star he hoped the hearing would clear his name and allow him to compete in the 2016 Olympic Games.

“Please pray for me and wish me well (for the hearing session). All I want is to clear my name and return to Badminton,” he recently tweeted.

Le, 32, tested positive for the banned anti-inflammatory drug dexamethasone at last year’s World Championships in Copenhagen, where he lost to China’s Chen Long in the final.

If found guilty, he coud face a career-ending two-year ban.

One of Malaysia’s most popular sports stars, Lee said he received dexamethasone during stem cell treatment for a thigh injury in July last year.

He has maintained that he would retire if he were banned for two years. – AFP