As the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina near their conclusion, attention shifted to an unexpected development involving one national team. With medals still being contested in curling, alpine skiing, ice hockey, and bobsleigh, the final days remained highly competitive. However, ahead of the much-anticipated four-man bobsleigh event, reports confirmed that one team had been withdrawn by its own National Olympic Committee.

According to The Times of Israel, the Israeli four-man bobsleigh team was removed following an internal review. The Olympic Committee of Israel stated that a substitution request failed to meet official eligibility rules. Under Olympic regulations, an alternate athlete may only replace a competitor in cases of verified illness or injury. The situation involved a declaration of illness that was later acknowledged as inaccurate, prompting officials to withdraw the request for a lineup change.

In its official statement, the committee explained that a team member had reported feeling unwell and underwent medical evaluation to request approval for an alternate competitor. However, the athlete later admitted the declaration did not accurately reflect his condition. As a result, officials determined that continuing with the substitution would violate competition standards, and the request was rescinded. The team was subsequently withdrawn from the event.

Despite the controversy, the competition moved forward. Germany delivered a dominant performance, winning both gold and silver in the four-man bobsleigh. Switzerland secured bronze, while Team GB finished seventh overall. As the Games conclude, Olympic organizers and national committees are expected to review procedures to reinforce transparency, fairness, and integrity in future competitions.