Murofushi loses appeal at CAS in IOC election case

LAUSANNE, Switzerland (AP) — Former Olympic champion Koji Murofushi has lost his appeal against disqualification from an election to become an IOC member representing athletes.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport says it dismissed the Japanese hammer thrower’s challenge of an IOC decision excluding him, after claims he excessively lobbied fellow athletes ahead of voting at the London Olympics.

Despite ruling against the 2004 Athens Games champion and bronze medalist in London, CAS said Murofushi’s “reputation and sportsmanship were intact.”

Murofushi was barred after apparently winning one of four vacant eight-year IOC membership mandates in a 21-candidate election.

The IOC also disqualified a second athlete, Taiwanese taekwondo fighter Chu Mu-yen, for breaking campaign rules. CAS dismissed Chu’s appeal in March.

The IOC has delayed filling the athlete member seats during the nine-month appeal process.