IOC?s Latest Announcement Brings Back Hopes for Nathan Chen and Other US Stars? Missed Beijing Olympics Ceremony Due to Russian Figure Skating Scandal

The Beijing Olympics saw one of the biggest doping scandals in figure skating. Here, Russia?s 15-year-old skater, Kamila Valieva, tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs. However, she was still allowed to take part in the individual event.

The International Olympic Committee has asked for a quick resolution of the issue. They hope to carry out the delayed medal ceremony of the team event as soon as possible.

IOC?s statement at the news conference on Friday

Valieva tested positive during a domestic competition, and so, the Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA) is overseeing the case. In a news conference held on Friday, the President of IOC, Thomas Bach, said,??The World Anti-Doping Agency and the International Testing Agency are following up on this.??

He added, “This is in the hands of anti-doping authorities. We have made it clear to them we are hoping for a fast and quick resolution of the issue. Once it is resolved, we will have this ceremony.”

On the topic of Valieva?s failed drug test, Russian President Vladimir Putin had commented back in April, defending the young skater. This has called into question the integrity of the case.

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In the first place, the Russian team competed in Beijing without its flag or anthem, as Russia has been?barred?from the same for four years since WADA?s sanction in December 2019.

The wait for Beijing team medals continues

The failed drug test was only revealed after Valieva had helped the Russian team win gold at the team event. Team USA had secured silver and team Japan was to bring home the bronze. But the doping news put a pin on the results and IOC delayed the medal ceremony until further investigation.

Skaters from the US team, like Nathan Chen, have expressed that they are still waiting for their medals. Being denied the opportunity to celebrate the result, their Beijing victory as a team feels lackluster. The team went home with empty boxes instead.

It also caused major controversy when the IOC allowed Valieva to take part in the individual event. However, Valieva failed to place on the podium, coming fourth and leaving the rink in tears.

It seems that finally, some sort of conclusion is on the horizon with the IOC?s latest statement. Now everyone is trying to regain their bearings for the next season.

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