Algeria's Taoufik Makhloufi expelled from Olympics but put back on the event list. Photo:AFP
Makhloufi, who claimed the 1500m semi-final in 3min 42.24sec, had been constrained to take part the two-lap race after his team failed to take him out of it before the deadline.
Makhloufi took the start of the 800m race Monday morning but apparently did not want to do his best as he slowed down from running at a certain moment into the race and started walking.
The IAAF said he was a disgrace for sport and expelled the Algerian from further participation in the Olympic Games.
Makhloufi then consulted a doctor of the organization who declared that the Algerian medal contender in the 1,500 meters, is fighting knee problems. Thereupon his exclusion was undone and the runner will line-up at the start of Tuesday’s 1500m final.
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One Response to “Algerian Taoufik Makhloufi disqualified from Olympics but reinstated back”
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Having read that he did desire a withdrawal from the 800 meter event some sympathy may be due to the athlete who effectively may have stopped some other wishful runner from competing. I fail to see how an injured knee can take the strain of a twice as long period of injury in a longer race.
I feel that the doctor might if named be useful to many others who have ‘iffy’ muscle or bony problems. A definite gift to the work shy but perhaps he comes from a nation that does not have a benefit system like the UK.
He should have written a note excusing Taoufik Makhloufi any strenuous activity for a period of no less than one week to protect this injured knee. I would also expect that analgesia would have been offered and taken.