CORSIER-SUR-VEVEY, Switzerland (AP) - The Swedish wrestler who dropped his medal in protest at the Beijing Olympics has been banned from the sport for two years.
Wrestling's governing body said Thursday it had suspended Ara Abrahamian and coach Leo Myllari. It said their "scandalous behavior" showed a "serious lack of Olympic spirit."
Abrahamian disputed a call in his semifinal loss in the Greco-Roman 84-kilogram division. His Italian opponent went on to win the gold medal.
Abrahamian won his bronze medal bout but staged a protest at the ceremony.
He walked off the stage and angrily dropped his medal on the mat. The IOC expelled him from the games.
Sweden's wrestling federation is also banned from hosting international events for two years. |