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Canada Cleared in Skeleton Withdrawal Case as IBSF Plans Spring Rules Review

A rules review is planned this spring following the decision that Canada broke no regulations.

Overview

  • The IBSF’s Interim Integrity Unit dismissed complaints over Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton’s Lake Placid withdrawals, noting current rules allow federations to scratch athletes at any time.
  • The federation emphasized that parties are expected to honor the spirit of fair play even when actions comply with the letter of the code.
  • The late pullouts reduced ranking points for the North American Cup race, ending American Katie Uhlaender’s bid for a sixth Olympics despite her victory.
  • BCS said the decision prioritized athlete health, safety and long-term development, while rival nations alleged it was intended to safeguard Canada’s Olympic quota.
  • The IBSF Sport Committee will consider rule adjustments in the spring, and representatives from the U.S., Denmark, Israel and Malta have raised the matter with the IOC Athletes’ Commission.