Winter Olympics: Italy lodge formal complaint over Sighel disqualification
The Italian Sports Federation has lodged a formal complaint regarding judging standards at the 2026 Winter Olympics following the controversial disqualification of home favourite Pietro Sighel.
The host nation’s governing body expressed deep frustration after the short-track speed skater crashed during his men’s 500m heat.
Sighel fell to the ice following a collision during an attempted overtake involving Canadian rival Maxime Laoun.
Despite video reviews, officials opted to disqualify the Italian rather than reinstate him, sparking a heated dispute regarding the officiating in Milano Cortina.
‘Inconsistent and contradictory decisions’
The ruling triggered an immediate backlash from the Italian Sports Federation (FISG), who have openly questioned the consistency of the judges.
Federation officials claim that coaches from other competing nations share their concerns regarding how rules are being applied on the ice.
“We have witnessed inconsistent and contradictory decisions by the same judge in the treatment of Pietro Sighel during these Olympics,” said the federation president.
“Our opinion has been confirmed and is shared by coaches and officials from other nations present at the Games, who have expressed similar concerns about what was seen on the ice.”
The president described the situation as “serious and worrying”, stating it was their duty to intervene to ensure sporting fairness.
Federation criticises ISU response
In a strongly worded statement, the FISG also directed criticism at the International Skating Union (ISU) for failing to address the issue during the event.
The Italian body labelled the lack of intervention as “problematic” given the “obvious inconsistencies” in decision-making.
They have vowed to “vigorously protect” their athletes in every appropriate forum throughout the remainder of the Games.
Sighel, considered a major medal prospect for the hosts, has received full backing from his national team to recover his form.
Italian Sports Federation statement“Pietro has proven his worth on the ice, and we are proud of him. We hope and believe that Pietro, along with his teammates, will respond with determination and bring home a medal he fully deserves.”