Hongkonger’s fencing gold medal rival gets Paris Olympics nod despite doping ban threat
- World Anti-Doping Agency appealing decision to clear France’s Ysaora Thibus after positive test for banned substance
Ysaora Thibus, one of the favourites for gold in the women’s foil event, will compete at the Paris Olympics, despite the threat of a doping ban hanging over her head.
The 32-year-old was suspended by the International Fencing Federation (FIE) in February after testing positive for the banned substance Ostarine before being cleared of any wrongdoing by the governing body in May.
However, the World Anti-Doping Agency appealed the decision before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and demanded a four-year ban for the Tokyo silver medallist, although she is still allowed to compete until her case is resolved.
It is unclear when the ruling is expected, but Thibus’s lawyer said it could take months.
“It’s not an easy situation, but she’s a champion,” Joelle Monlouis said. “She is focused on the Games.”
Thibus, who will be battling for the same medals as Hong Kong’s Daphne Chan Nok-sze, will also take part in the team event.
