Moisevich was found to be in breach of World Athletics’ Integrity Code of Conduct by a disciplinary tribunal.

Moisevich’s actions were judged by the tribunal to be an abuse of power and he was also found to have provided false or inaccurate information in the lead-up to Tsimanouskaya’s departure from the Olympic Village, the AIU said.

The 63-year-old, who retired last May, “has been immediately barred from participation in any capacity in any aspect of athletics or any activity under the ambit of World Athletics or its Area Associations and Member Federations,” it added.

What happened in Tokyo?

Tsimanouskaya refused to board a flight back home from Tokyo when she was removed from the Olympics against her will after publicly complaining about the decision by the national team’s coaches to enter her in the 4x400 meters relay, which was not her customary distance.

She defected to Poland, saying she feared for her safety if she returned to Belarus.

World Athletics cleared her to compete for Poland after waiving the normal three-year waiting period for nationality changes.

Moisevich was charged after Tsimanouskaya’s withdrawal was referred to the AIU by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and World Athletics (WA) on September 30, 2021.

“This ruling represents a significant success for the rights of athletes in the sport of athletics,” AIU Chair David Howman said.

“The dignity of all athletes is of paramount importance and every attempt must be made to guarantee the environment in which they compete is free of harassment, abuse, and bad faith dealings of any kind,” he added.