Russia has been banned from the 2018 Winter Olympics for a state-sponsored doping program. No athlete can participate under the Russian flag as a representative of the nation. IF any are allowed to compete, they will do so under the Olympic flag and would hear the Olympic anthem if they win a medal.
Russia will undoubtedly appeal the ruling but Putin has suggested a boycott is possible.
This whole thing has international incident written all over it.
The olympics is the most crooked thing out there.
Why the ban again? I know, google....
I suppose this puts the mens hockey at a more equal competition for everyone else unless they still have a hockey team together.
"systemic manipulation of the anti-doping rules and system"
The hockey team could compete but it wouldn't be under the Russian flag. They would be called "Olympic athletes from Russia."
After I hit send I kinda figured that... yeah, but I wonder how many it might deter from participating if not representing the country in that sense.Originally Posted by BigAle
Hockey is really the only winter olympic sport I watch or make an effort to, that and bobsled for the crashes mainly.
I love curling.
I think it depends on whether Putin decides they want to boycott. If he says Russia is boycotting I don't think any Russian athlete will be willing to go against that.
it would be funny if Russia wins medals and it's like
Gold - USA
Silver - Anonymous Olympic Team
Bronze - China
The offical designation will be OAR. (Olympic Athlete from Russia)
Sounds like several prominent Russian athletes have said they will not attend
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