Team Latvia in a Tough Situation Following Illegal Activity
PUBLICATION
TJ Tucker
May 29, 2023 (10:20 PM)
From the highest of highs, to possibly facing discipline, things couldn't have turned around faster for Team Latvia.
The Situation
Latvia made history at the recent World Championships in Finland after upsetting Team USA to win bronze at the tournament. It was the first-ever medal for Latvia at the IIHF level, and led to a huge celebration Riga, and the county declaring Monday a national holiday.
The Problem
While it isn't minor, the issue has little to do with hockey itself. According to reports, there is concern over Team Latvia wearing jersey patches and armbands featuring the Estonian online gambling company OlyBet. According to lottery laws in Finland, companies from outside the country are not permitted to advertise during sporting events.
To clarify, the WC took place in both Finland and Latvia. However, it appears Olybet was the featured sponsor for Latvia, regardless of where they were playing a game. What this could mean for the team's bronze medal, if anything, remains to be seen.
POLL |
Did you watch any of the World Championships? |
Yes | 40 | 48.2 % |
No | 38 | 45.8 % |
Just the gold medal game | 5 | 6 % |
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