‘Someone needs to be dismissed’: IOC president threatens staff after blindsiding questions

Tensions flared at the closing news conference of the Winter Games in Italy as IOC President Kristy Coventry publicly rebuked members of her own communications team.

Pressed on reports that Germany is hesitant to pursue hosting the 2036 Olympic Games, Ms Coventry said she was unaware of the story and openly expressed frustration that it had not been brought to her attention.

Moments later, she faced questions about a New York Times investigation alleging the IOC had been aware that the chair of Russia’s anti-doping agency was directly involved in widespread doping linked to the Sochi Games.

Again, Ms Coventry said she had not been briefed and signalled her anger at the staff.

“I’m really looking at my team, and maybe someone needs to be dismissed because I’m not aware of that either,” Ms Coventry said.