23 August 2004 -- The head of Russia's State Sports Agency today criticized his compatriots' performance at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens.
Vyacheslav Fetisov warned against making "hasty conclusions" while the games were continuing but said the performances of many of the Russian athletes had already caused "bitter disappointment."
Fetisov said the sports agency had provided the Olympic competitors with the resources they needed and suggested the fault lies with the Russian Olympic Committee.
He said the government had invested a lot of money in preparing for the Olympics and that a reconsideration of that investment would be forthcoming.
Russia has won 37 medals in all, including six gold, and ranks eighth in overall medal earners.
(AFP)
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Fetisov said the sports agency had provided the Olympic competitors with the resources they needed and suggested the fault lies with the Russian Olympic Committee.
He said the government had invested a lot of money in preparing for the Olympics and that a reconsideration of that investment would be forthcoming.
Russia has won 37 medals in all, including six gold, and ranks eighth in overall medal earners.
(AFP)
More stories about the Olympics from RFE/RL:
Athens Readies For Spectacular Opening Ceremony
Muslim Women Athletes Move Ahead, But Don't Leave Faith Behind
After Medal-Winning Glory, What Next For Former Soviet Athletes?
Despite Problems, Olympic Ideals Endure
Games Struggle For Spotlight, But Prestige Remains
For Some Athletes, Behind The Medals Lies Real Gold