Diving into the Depths of Drama: Eighteen Hair-Raising Controversial Moments in Olympic History

The Olympic Games, a symbol of unity, sportsmanship, and international camaraderie, have often found themselves at the epicenter of controversy. These world-renowned sporting events have not been immune to the drama that sometimes unfolds behind the scenes or even out on the field. This article delves into eighteen such hair-raising controversial moments in Olympic history, shedding light on the tension, the politics, and the human spirit that have all had a role to play in these unforgettable instances.

1908 London Olympics: The Marathon Controversy

The 1908 London Olympics were the first to witness a major controversy. Italian runner Dorando Pietri, who was leading the marathon, collapsed several times before crossing the finish line. Despite being assisted by officials - a clear violation of the rules - Pietri was initially awarded the victory. The resulting uproar led to his disqualification, and the gold was subsequently given to American runner Johnny Hayes.