PYEONGCHANG, South Korea – Russian short-track speedskater Semen Elistratov is being investigated for a possible breach of Olympic regulations after dedicating his bronze medal to compatriots banned from the Games for doping violations.
Elistratov clinched a surprise bronze medal in the 1,500-meter event at Gangneung Ice Arena on Saturday night and broke down in tears after crossing the finish line. He later criticized the decision to expel the Russian team and many of its athletes from Pyeongchang.
“I have difficulties to hold back my tears,” Elistratov said. “I am incredibly happy that I did it, in spite of all the circumstances around Russian sport.