The affair is escalating. Karoliina Nissinen, the candidate defeated by Alexander Ratner in the race for the presidency of the European Shooting Confederation (ESC), has officially filed a complaint to the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF). The Finnish woman denounces serious breaches of integrity during the electionorganized in October. It speaks of electoral manipulation, financial pressure – the Russian oligarch Vladimir Lisin allegedly promised 200.000 euros per federation in exchange for electoral support – as well as intimidation attempts.
In the statement released Friday, Nissinen emphasized that the seriousness of these problems could expose the ISSF to sanctions from the IOC, who are " including threats of reduced Olympic funding, or even a review of the place of shooting sports in the Olympic program ». The Finnish player is calling for Alexander Ratner's provisional suspension.but also the temporary revocation of ESC recognition pending the investigation.
« It was not a free election, she argues. The future of European sport shooting and the credibility of the ISSF depend on an independent and thorough investigation. » Contacted by Francs Jeux, The ISSF confirms that it has received the complaint.Next step: the integrity officer reviews the case and makes a recommendation to the Integrity Council.
