Finland coach Medved sent home over alcohol
Finland ski jumping head coach Igor Medved was sent home from the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics this week after breaching team rules by consuming alcohol, the Finnish Olympic Committee confirmed.
Medved left Italy following what officials described as “alcohol-related issues,” just days into the Games. “We take rule violations very seriously and will act quickly,” said Janne Hänninen, head of elite sports, adding that the priority is to ensure “peace of mind for the athletes and coaching staff.”
Finnish Ski Federation director Marleena Valtasola said the coach would not return to the Olympic programme. “Alcohol was consumed in violation of team rules,” she stated. “Now it is essential to safeguard the athletes’ concentration.”
Medved, appointed in June 2024, apologised for his conduct, admitting his actions outside working hours failed to meet agreed standards.