Russian president wants Olympic overhaul 02/03/2010 |
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Russian president Dmitry Medvedev has told the country’s Olympic officials to resign or be sacked after a dismal performance at the Winter Games in Vancouver.
Russia, for so long a powerhouse in Winter sports, finished 11th in the medals table with just three golds – its worst ever return at a Winter Olympics.
The result was particularly disappointing because Russia will host the next Winter Games in Sochi in 2014.
"Those responsible should take the brave decision and sign a letter [of resignation]," Medvedev said. "If they can't, we will help them.
"We must drastically change the training of our athletes, judging by what has happened in Vancouver.
"The athletes, not federations, those fat cats, must be given priority.”
Medvedev believes Russia has failed to build on the strong sporting foundations laid down by the old Soviet Union.
"For a long time we have benefited from Soviet achievements,” he continued. “At some point they ran out. We have lost the Soviet sports school, it is simply gone, but we have not formed our own system.”
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