Canada’s appeal over Beijing figure skating medal rejected | CBC Sports

Canada’s appeal to be awarded a team figure skating bronze medal from the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics was rejected by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on Friday, leaving the Russia Olympic Committee in third place.

Led by Kamila Valieva, Russia won gold but were downgraded to bronze after the teenager tested positive for a banned substance.

Canada, who finished fourth, had hoped for Russia to be disqualified, which would have put them on the podium.

The United States had previously been moved up to gold and Japan silver.

In a statement shortly after its appeal was denied, Skate Canada said it “respects” the decision but was still “disappointed.”

“While we are disappointed that the ruling does not award Canada the bronze medal, we stand by the efforts and performances of our athletes. Their dedication, resilience, and sportsmanship throughout this entire process exemplify the spirit of Canadian figure skating.

“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the gold and silver medalists, the United States and Japan,” it added.

The International Olympic Committee signaled that it would not challenge the ruling.

“The IOC has taken note of the CAS ruling and will respect the decision,” the IOC said.

The IOC has already planned a medal ceremony for Wednesday in Paris where the U.S. team will receive their gold medals.