The Russian Olympic Committee has lashed out at suggestions of their athletes doping at the Tokyo Olympics in a furious statement, and even accused the claims of being 'propaganda' from the mouths of those 'offended by defeats'.
Team GB's Luke Greenbank questioned whether he was racing against 'clean' swimmers in the 200m backstroke after taking the bronze medal behind Ryan Murphy and the winner, Evgeny Rylov of Russia.
It was silver medallist Murphy who first raised concerns over the event, and Greenbank added to this by admitting it was 'frustrating' that the ROC were competing despite the country being banned.
Russia were prevented from taking part after a state-sponsored doping programme was uncovered, and they were also found guilty by the Court of Arbitration for Sport after failing to comply with a World Anti-Doping Agency probe.
Rylov, who completed a 100m and 200m backstroke double with an Olympic record, is allowed to represent Russia's Olympic Committee rather than the flag along with hundreds of others, a decision that has been widely criticised.
But soon after the first doubts were voiced on Friday morning, the ROC issued a strongly-worded statement and declared it is 'absolutely right' that they were allowed to compete in Japan this summer.
Luke Greenbank (R) questioned whether he took part in a 'clean' race after Russia's Evgeny Rylov (C) secured a gold medal ahead of USA's Ryan Murphy (L)
It read: 'How unnerving our victories are for [some]. Yes, we are here at the Olympics. Absolutely right. Whether people like it or not.
'But you have to be able to lose. Not everyone is given this. The old hurdy-durdy has again started up the song about Russian doping. Someone is twisting the handle carefully. English language propaganda, oozing verbal sweat in the Tokyo heat.
'Through the mouths of athletes offended by defeats. We will not console you. Forgive those who are weaker. God is their judge. And for us, an assistant.'
Asked if he agreed with Murphy's comments, Team GB's Greenbank had replied:
