WADA is concerned about the delay in the investigation against Vali

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has expressed concern over the delay in the doping investigation against Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva.

The Russian Anti-Doping Agency (Rusada) announced last Sunday that it would not publish the results of its investigation.

WADA President Vitold Banjka said that he will take the case to court if it is not resolved quickly, the BBC reported today.

Valieva won Olympic gold in Beijing this year in the team event, before it was revealed that she had tested positive for a banned substance before the Winter Olympics. She was 15 years old at the time, and the news of her positive doping test was announced during the competition, and Valije was allowed to continue participating.

"WADA is concerned about the postponement of Kamila Valijeva's case and has officially informed Rusada that, if the matter is not resolved on time, it will use its right to bring it directly to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS)," said Banjka.

Rusada did not name Valieva, now 16, but said last Sunday it would not release the results of its investigation "to protect the skater's interests". The body said it did not intend to release a hearing date, decision or other details in the case.

During the Games, the CAS decided that Vliyeva, whose positive test last December came after using drugs to improve heart function, could continue to compete in Beijing. She was the favorite, but fell several times during the free program and did not win a medal in the individual competition.

Because of her age, she is considered a "protected person" under anti-doping rules and could avoid a harsher punishment. However, if it is determined that she was doped and that decision remains in force even after appeals, the entire Russian team could be without a gold medal, since she had the highest marks during the short and free program.

The American team would then receive the gold, Japan the silver, and fourth place Canada the bronze medal.

Medals have not yet been awarded.