Fuss about Antholz winner: “Didn’t deserve to be here”

By Thomas Debelyak from Antholz

Stupid coincidence or irony of fate - the fact is that what happened on Saturday didn't exactly create a cheerful atmosphere in the biathlon camp. Early in the morning it became known that the World Biathlon Federation had banned the Russian biathlete Evgeny Ustyugov has been taken out of circulation for 2 years due to the use of banned substances. A few hours later, Alexander Loginov, of all people, a former Russian doping offender, got it Gold medal in men's sprint .

Maybe that was the reason why Loginov looked like a world champion in the wrong place at the wrong time at the press conference in the Paul Zingerle Media Center. Because: The topic of doping is and remains a constant companion for the 28-year-old. This was particularly evident from the fact that the journalists' questions at the press conference revolved solely around this topic. Interest in sports was limited. There was a scandal 3 years ago Loginov was banned for two years in 2014 after testing positive for the banned endurance-enhancing substance EPO. Since 2, he has been taking part in important competitions again and has also celebrated successes - such as at the World Championships in Hochfilzen 2017 years ago, when he won bronze in the mixed relay. At that competition there was also a scandal between him and superstar Martin Fourcade. The Frenchman had denounced Loginov's start, but the Russian then refused to shake his hand at the award ceremony, so Fourcade left the podium.

In 2017, Martin Fourcade left the podium because of Loginov. © AFP / FRANCK FIFE

Fourcade, who won the bronze medal in the sprint on Saturday, refrained from protesting this time. “When it comes to doping, everyone always expects me to speak out. Everyone knows how important this topic is to me and how much it hurts me. We have a wonderful World Cup here in Antholz and should concentrate on sport,” he replied to a journalist.

“There is a certain flavor because he was already banned for EPO doping and is now at a level again.” Arnd Peiffer Other athletes, however, expressed criticism. There were allegations, especially from the Norwegian camp. “Loginov doesn’t deserve to be here,” said Tarjei Bø, who finished in fourth place. The German Arnd Peiffer, on the other hand, said: “There is a certain taste because he was already banned for EPO doping and is now back at a level like he was at the time of EPO abuse. On the other hand, Loginov has served his ban and is presumed innocent, even if that is not always easy. I hope he’s clean.”

Loginov, who does not communicate with the media and only provides information at press conferences, reacted calmly to the allegations. “I am open to conversations, I talk to everyone, about everything, at any time,” said the new world champion, who added: “I have bought a larger apartment with my wife. Anyone who wants is welcome to come by to check my daily routine.” This was one of the few times that a smile crossed the Russian’s face at the press conference.

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Fuss about Antholz winner: “Didn’t deserve to be here”

The Russian Alexander Loginov surprisingly won the Antholz Sprint on Saturday and was crowned world champion. Afterwards, critical voices against the former doping sinner were raised from the athletes' camp.

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