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

The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
Thank you for signing up to The Pick. You will receive a verification email shortly.
There was a problem. Please refresh the page and try again.
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.
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
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
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.
-
-
Is this the fastest cat in London? - Sigrid and Travis tackle hill climb competition
The American goes everywhere with his cat - that includes powering up London's toughest climb, Swain's Lane
By Adam Becket Published
-
Primož Roglič should ride for 'the smartest man in cycling', says Brian Holm
Holm says Roglič would be a good fit for Ineos Grenadiers to help reclaim former glory under Rod Ellingworth
By Tom Thewlis 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
-
Nino Schurter claims astonishing tenth mountain bike world title
The Swiss rider is considered the greatest of all time.
By Tom Davidson Published
-
It's time we had a serious, adult discussion about cycling's appalling impact on the environment so here are eight achievable proposals
No more pretending that we care; it's time to implement these measures to make an actual difference
By Chris Marshall-Bell Last updated