FIFA World Cup: Russians sniffed ammonia to enhance their performance
A report has claimed that the Russian footballers sniffed ammonia to enhance their performance during extra-time at the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2018. Russia played two knock-out matches that went to extra-time. They eventually lost to Croatia in penalty shoot-out. Notably, ammonia is a non-banned substance and Russian team doctor stated that it cannot be construed as doping.
What has the Russian team doctor stated?
Russian team doctor, Eduard Bezuglov, has stated that the players did inhale common ammonia, which was moistened in cotton wool. He also added that this is used by thousands of athletes to perk them up and it has nothing to do with doping. He said to a Bavarian-based newspaper that the players inhaled the same in their round of 16 match against Spain.
How does sniffing ammonia help?
The non-banned substance is known to increase the flow of oxygen in the blood which, in turn, stimulates breathing. It is a power salt that is commonly used by weightlifters to improve their performances.
What has German media claimed?
German media house spoke to experts, who have claimed that ammonia acts as a stimulant besides delaying fatigue and, therefore, fits the definition of doping. Another article claimed that the Russian Federation acted as if the use of ammonia was common like using shampoo while taking a shower. Is this another doping scandal in making? Let's see how do authorities react.
