Alex Schwazer and his coach Sandro Donati (front) have a tiny glimmer of hope that they will be able to take part in the 2024 Olympic Games. © .

Schwazer's fight continues: the 2024 Olympics is possible?

Last weekend, Alex Schwazer was invited to his friend Aaron March's wedding. Behind the scenes, the former world-class walker's fight against his doping ban continues. Is there even a chance of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris?

July 16, 2023

From: cst

The Olympic walking competition will take place in Paris on August 1, 2024. Previously it was 50 kilometers that had to be completed (Schwazer won the gold medal in Beijing in 2008), but in the future it will be “only” 20 kilometers. It is still unlikely that the South Tyrolean will be able to compete in France. But apparently a possibility has arisen that there is at least a glimmer of hope. That's what she reports Journal of Sport.

Schwazer would be 39 years old next August. His doping ban, which remains in place despite proven innocence, expires on July 7, 2024. But because the walker from Kalch has worked extensively with the anti-doping units, he is actually entitled to a shortening of the ban (up to 50 percent is possible, but Schwazer would be enough for 10 percent).

Schwazer during his Olympic victory over 50 kilometers in Beijing (2008). © AFP / ADRIAN DENNIS

The basic requirement is that the blockage is reduced. Schwazer would have to qualify for the Olympic Games by June 30, 2024. To do this he needs a time of under 1:20.10 hours (20km) or to be included in a ranking. Both are only possible if Schwazer competes in at least one competition. It is questionable whether the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU/a newly founded anti-doping organization of the World Athletics Association) will play a role. Both are fierce opponents of Schwazer and his coach Sandro Donati.