Aussie Zac Stubblety-Cook Reportedly Considering Podium Protest Against Qin Haiyang

2024 PARIS SUMMER OLYMPIC GAMES

One of the top stories regarding the Chinese swimming team heading into Paris is the fact that 11 of the 23 who tested positive for banned substance trimetazidine (TMZ) ahead of the 2020 Olympics are among the lineup for these Games.

Although the nation’s roster of 31 athletes has already been drug tested almost 200 times in total after just its first 10 days in Paris, Chinese swimmers may not receive an overwhelmingly cheerful response upon earning a medal.

For instance, reigning 200m breaststroke Olympic champion Zac Stubblety-Cook told Reuters this week that he may consider a podium protest or other display of disapproval should current world record holder Qin Haiyang of China earn a medal.

“Personally I think I will make a decision [about a protest of some kind] probably on the day.

“Racing someone that was one of those athletes and finding out he was one of those athletes was disappointing.

“I think it’s less about what country they came from and more about the system and how the system ultimately feels like it’s failed. And that’s the truth.”

As we reported earlier this year, the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Rule 50, which governs athlete expression, maintains for Paris that athletes are still not allowed to make signs of protest or expression during official ceremonies like medal ceremonies.

ZSC acknowledged this fact, stating, “Everyone probably is aware of rule 50 here and the repercussions that happen with that.”

It was at the 2019 World Championships where now-retired Aussie medalist Mack Horton protested gold medalist Sun Yang‘s (CHN) presence by abstaining from podium celebrations, standing behind the platform on the floor during the Chinese national anthem.

Horton and the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) received warning letters from World Aquatics (then FINA) for the demonstration.

Another Olympic champion breaststroker, Adam Peaty of Great Britain, has also commented on the current state of Chinese doping case affairs. He said this week, “If it’s not fair then it takes the enjoyment out for me.

“I think if other countries aren’t living up to that standard [high standard that British athletes are], then it’s a real shame that brings a real dark cloud over what the Olympics is meant to stand for.” (Reuters)

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lotus
12 minutes ago

Good for him, you shouldn’t have to share podium with someone who has tested positive twice

MDE
1 hour ago

I agree with him, but the immediate follow up question to him should be about Shayna Jack.

Boomba
Reply to  MDE
1 minute ago

Shayna Jack served a 2 year ban mate. She was unable to train with any squad or swim in any comp whatsoever

Beginner Swimmer at 25
1 hour ago

What happens if he wins?

Comet16
2 hours ago

They will be looking at Fallon at the top step
😂😂😂

SHRKB8
2 hours ago

ZSC, don’t put the cart before the horse, got to make a few pieces drop into place before you can even think about what happens after the race. Just focus on doing your bit to get on the podium and worry about whether Qin Haiyang does his bit to meet you up there.

billylane
3 hours ago

Can’t wait to see the new Australian clown show.

Swimmerfromjapananduk
3 hours ago

It doesn’t matter because you will be looking up to him when you finish second

TomDeanBoxall
4 hours ago

He’s quite the introvert so am surprised to hear that he’s considering it. Hopefully he’ll make a good choice.

jeff
Reply to  TomDeanBoxall
2 hours ago

not like he has to socialize up there with people during the protest

Loz
Reply to  jeff
2 hours ago

💀

About Retta Race

Retta Race

Former Masters swimmer and coach Loretta (Retta) thrives on a non-stop but productive schedule. Nowadays, that includes having just earned her MBA while working full-time in IT while owning French 75 Boutique while also providing swimming insight for BBC.

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