4 chapters across the catalog
Dutch gymnast Yuri van Gelder was expelled from the Rio games for violating team rules regarding alcohol and leaving the Olympic village. While the public was initially outraged, it was revealed that Van Gelder has a history of cocaine addiction. The hosts also discuss the "cupping" marks seen on Michael Phelps and other athletes.
Michael Phelps Marijuana Photo Controversy and Role Models
Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps faced public backlash and the loss of corporate sponsorships after a photograph surfaced showing him using a glass pipe. The conversation compares the public's reaction to Phelps' drug use with the acceptance of Barack Obama's past marijuana use. The hosts argue that while the imagery is negative, marijuana is not a banned substance in many professional sporting contexts.
Olympic Boxing Scandal, Chinese Underage Athletes, Michael Phelps
The Beijing 2008 Olympics are criticized for corruption, specifically regarding rigged matches and poor officiating in boxing. Allegations of underage Chinese gymnasts with falsified passports and biased judging in favor of Chinese athletes are discussed. The Michael Phelps seventh gold medal win is also mentioned as a potential minor scandal involving timing sponsor Omega.
Omega Timing Controversy, FINA Rules, Michael Phelps Wallace and Gromit
The swimming timing system provided by Omega, known as ARES, is scrutinized following Michael Phelps' close finish in the butterfly. FINA rules require a simultaneous two-hand touch in butterfly races, which some observers believe was not clearly met. Additionally, the sudden dominance of Jamaican runners is noted as suspicious, while Phelps' appearance is compared to a Wallace and Gromit claymation character.
