Alexander Bolshunov WHIPS rival with ski pole, then crashes into him on purpose

An extraordinary finish to a cross-country relay race in Finland saw Alexander Bolshunov lash out at a rival with his ski pole, then tackle him to the floor. Bolshunov, the defending World Cup overall champion, was hit with a time penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct, which sounds like an understatement…

Russia's Alexander Bolshunov (L) competes with Finland's Joni Maeki in the final meters, slashing Maeki with his stick, during the men's Cross Country relay 4x7,5km

Image credit: Getty Images

Russia’s Alexander Bolshunov lost the plot during the finale of a cross-country skiing relay in Finland – whipping a rival with his ski pole before crashing into him on purpose.

The four-time Olympic medallist felt aggrieved that his line was blocked as he battled with Finland’s Joni Maki for the silver medal during the 4×7.5km World Cup relay in Lahti, Finland.

Rather than graciously accepting defeat, Bolshunov lashed out twice with his ski pole, then tackled his rival to the ground after crossing the finish line.

Cross-Country Skiing