Winter Olympics ‘alcohol scandal’ as coach sent home and country release statement

The Winter Olympics have descend into an “alcohol scandal” after a coach was sent home from Milano-Cortina with his nation releasing a statement

A coach at the Winter Olympics has been sent home after an “alcohol scandal” at the games.

In a statement on Thursday, Finland confirmed their ski jumping head coach, Igor Medved, had been sent home due to “alcohol-related issues”. Janne Hänninen, head of elite sports at the Finnish Olympic Committee, said: “Medved has travelled home today.”

“This is about alcohol-related issues. We take rule violations very seriously and will act quickly in the matter.” Hänninen refused to outline the details of Medved’s behaviour, which Swedish outlet newspaper Aftonbladet has described as a “drunkenness scandal”

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However he added: “The priority is to ensure peace of mind for the athletes and the coaching staff.”

Marleena Valtasola, the executive director of the Finnish Ski Federation, added they would decided Medved’s future once the games have concluded.

She said: “An unpleasant situation has arisen: alcohol was consumed in violation of team rules. We have decided that Medved will not participate in the Olympics.

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“The other issues will be discussed with him after the Games. Now it is essential to safeguard the athletes’ concentration and restore serenity to the team and for Igor.

“We have a solid staff in place and we are confident we can handle the situation in the best possible way.”

Medved, who took charge of the Finnish team in June 2024, has been quick to apologise for his behaviour. “I made a mistake and am very sorry,” he said.

“I want to apologise to the entire Finnish team, the athletes and also the fans. I wish the team peace and quiet to focus on the Olympics.”

Ski jumping has already been under the microscope in Italy after the “penis-gate” scandal dominated headlines heading into the games. With questions even being asked at WADA cheifs at pre-games press conference.