Russian cyclist accepts doping ban, is cleared to compete at Olympics
Olga Zabelinskaya had already been cleared by the Russian Cycling Federation, but has now resolved the case with the UCI
Russian cyclist Olga Zabelinskaya has accepted an 18-month doping ban but will be eligible to compete in the 2016 Rio Olympics this summer.
The rider, who took the bronze medals in both the road race and time trial at London 2012, was previously cleared of any wrong doing by the Russian Cycling Federation after testing positive for the banned stimulant octopamine in March 2014.
That decision was challenged by the UCI and the appeal was due to be heard by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
The case was "resolved via an acceptance of consequences" by the athlete, which meant Zabelinskaya accepted an 18-month ban.
>>> Katusha not suspended by UCI after Commission rules conditions for ban were ‘not met’
The year and a half doping ban expired in September 2015 and as such the Russian's preparations for the Olympics are unlikely to have been too thoroughly affected.
Present World Champion Lizzie Armitstead is seen by many as the women to beat for the Olympic road race, but she has stated that she is not the favourite for the hilly course.
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access
Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription
Join now for unlimited access
Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
Jack Elton-Walters hails from the Isle of Wight, and would be quick to tell anyone that it's his favourite place to ride. He has covered a varied range of topics for Cycling Weekly, producing articles focusing on tech, professional racing and cycling culture. He moved on to work for Cyclist Magazine in 2017 where he stayed for four years until going freelance. He now returns to Cycling Weekly from time-to-time to cover racing, review cycling gear and write longer features for print and online.
-
56% unpaved, 44% paved and plenty of pitchy climbs: the 2024 UCI Gravel World Championships race course revealed
Come October, rainbow jersey hopefuls will tackle a Classics-like course in woodsy Flemish Brabant.
By Anne-Marije Rook Published
-
Tour of Britain uncertainty stalls RideLondon Classique expansion plan
Organiser planned to add extra stage to this year's race, but question marks over the Tour of Britain Women has meant plans have been cancelled
By Jeremy Whittle Published
-
'All the conditions are met, then it's questioned again' - Visma-Lease a Bike bemoan UCI review after 'a lot of money' spent on development of Giro helmet
Team reacts to governing body statement on Tuesday, day after new helmet was debuted
By Tom Thewlis Published
-
The UCI is banning time trial helmet optimisations - one day after Giro lid broke cover
The 'head sock' is out, with more helmets to be reviewed - whilst hookless rim investigation is still ongoing
By Adam Becket Published
-
Convicted EPO doper Jarlinson Pantano returns to cycling with Colombian EPM team
Former Trek-Segafredo and IAM Cycling rider rejoins peloton after his four-year band expires
By Adam Becket Published
-
UCI launches investigation into massive men's Tour of Flanders pileup
World governing body also investigating road-blocking team tactics used by DSM in the race as well as by Trek-Segafredo at Dwars door Vlaanderen
By Tom Thewlis Published
-
Lefevere suggests UCI is 'short of cash' after fining Alaphilippe
Soudal Quick-Step rails against the ruling body after his French team leader is penalised for removing his helmet while racing
By Peter Cossins Published
-
Lava in the metaverse - Five things we want to see from a virtual Track Champions League
The competition is becoming more and more immersive, so here are a few suggestions
By Tom Davidson Published
-
Tailwind heaven: Moroccan one-day race tops 56km/h average speed
Strong Saharan winds propel riders at Grand Prix Sakia El Hamra
By Tom Davidson Published
-
Nairo Quintana to leave Arkéa-Samsic, six weeks after signing new contract
The Colombian is currently appealing his Tour de France disqualification
By Tom Davidson Published