Canada Cleared of American Claims of Rigging Bobsleigh Qualifying Race
The Canadian skeleton team were cleared of accusations that they rigged a selection race for the Winter Olympics, which allegedly denied competitors from other nations a spot to qualify.
The Core Allegation and Investigation
A prominent American athlete a five-time Olympian alleged the team from Canada of withdrawing four of its six competitors from a race in Lake Placid. The allegation was this shrunk the competition, making a lower points pool available. Although she took first place, Uhlaender failed to earn her qualifying position for the Milan-Cortina Games.
“The current IBSF Rules allow National Federations to withdraw athletes from an event at any time,” stated the governing body.
After reviewing the matter, the IBSF stated it would not impose sanctions, rejecting the allegations as no rules were broken of its code.
Canada's Explanation
In response, Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton stood by the withdrawals, pointing to athlete welfare and the need for recovery. They asserted that some athletes had competed extensively that week and the decision was “correct, clear and aligned with both their well-being and the integrity of the sport.”
Coaches from the US, Denmark, Israel, and Malta had voiced “deep worry” about the selection system's integrity.
The Athlete's Future
The 41-year-old athlete, the Milan-Cortina Games are planned to be her final Olympic appearance. While she can still qualify, the likely American berths are expected to go to other athletes. She is a former world champion whose closest Olympic finish was fourth place in Sochi 2014.
A Contentious Sporting Climate
The controversy occurs amidst a period of heightened tension in athletic competitions involving the two North American nations. Statements from political figures and trade disputes have fueled a intense competitive atmosphere. Notable recent events include heated ice hockey matches and a seven-game baseball championship between teams from the two countries.
