Stanislav Pozdnyakov, president of the Russian Olympic Committee, commented on the newly scheduled hearings dates in the doping case involving Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva. The Court of Arbitration for Sport set closed hearings with all parties present for September 26, 27, 28 and 29, 2023. Pozdnyakov stressed that the sports justice system has undergone significant upheaval over the past year and a half, suggesting it is not necessary to delay justice any further.
The controversy surrounding Valieva emerged during the 2022 Winter Games after a sample provided in December 2021 tested positive for a prohibited substance. At that time, there were discussions about disqualifying the athlete from participating in the Games. In mid-January, the World Anti-Doping Agency announced that the Russian Anti-Doping Agency informed it of a court decision acquitting Valieva, indicating no violation of the anti-doping rules by the athlete.
There were protests by American figure skaters who criticized the postponement of Valieva’s trial.
This case continues to attract attention from national and international sports communities, with legal and ethical debates surrounding rapid adjudication, athlete rights, and the integrity of competitive skating. The ongoing proceedings underscore the evolving landscape of sports governance and the role of international bodies in resolving complex doping allegations. (citation: CAS filing; WADA announcement; ROC statements)