Canada will appeal the International Skating Union's decision to award Russia the figure skating team bronze for the 2022 Olympics despite Kamila Valieva's recent disqualification for doping.
The case of Valieva, who was just fifteen at the time of the offense, dragged on for years, with a ruling only coming at the end of last month. Valieva was issued a four-year ban (backdated from the original offense, so she will be able to compete again in 2026) and stripped of all medals won since she tested positive.
It was widely expected that such a ruling would mean Russia's loss of the 2022 figure skating team gold, and the upgrading of USA's silver to gold, Japan's bronze to silver, and Canada's fourth place to bronze.
However, the ISU claims that even subtracting Valieva's marks Russia still had a point over Canada's total score, so Russia is currently in line for bronze.
"Our appeal is rooted in a commitment to fairness, transparency, and the integrity of the sport," said Skate Canada.
"Skate Canada believes that it is crucial for the integrity of competitive figure skating that rules and regulations are upheld consistently and fairly.
"While we respect the decisions made by the ISU, we disagree with the conclusion they have reached and believe an independent review will provide much needed clarity for all impacted parties.
"While we pursue this appeal, we want to express our full support and admiration for the gold and silver medallists from the United States of America and Japan.
"Their hard work, dedication, and exceptional performances deserve to be recognized, and we sincerely hope they receive their well-deserved medals in a timely manner.
"We appreciate the support of the skating community as we pursue this matter further."
The ISU's rules state that "competitors having finished the competition and who initially placed lower than the disqualified competitor will move up accordingly in their placement."
