Belarusian Paris Olympics medalist caught doping
Belarusian weightlifter Yauheni Tsikhantsou has been temporarily suspended from competitions due to suspicion of violating anti-doping rules.
Yauheni Tsikhantsou with an Olympic medal
The International Doping Testing Agency reported that traces of growth hormone were found in the athlete's doping sample, taken on March 8 out-of-competition. This substance is prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency both during and outside of tournaments.
For now, the suspension is temporary. Tsikhantsou has the right to request a B-sample test to confirm or refute the results of the initial analysis. He can also provide official explanations regarding how the prohibited substance might have entered his body.
Yauheni Tsikhantsou is a native of Gomel and one of the leaders of the Belarusian national weightlifting team. He is a bronze medalist at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, as well as a world champion and medalist, and a two-time European champion.