Medvedev Wants Heads to Roll

In spite of record spending leading up to the Games, Russia had its worst-ever showing at this year’s Winter Olympics, and President Dmitry Medvedev wants the officials involved in training this year’s athletes to resign. “The responsible officials should take the brave decision and sign a resignation letter,” said Medvedev, who canceled his planned trip to the Closing Ceremony due to Russian athletes’ disappointing performance. “If they can't, we will help them.” With a scant three first-place finishes, Russia finished in 11th place in terms of gold medals in Vancouver, a serious concern because the nation is hosting the next Winter Games. Medvedev placed the blame on bureaucracy rather than the actual Olympic team, and said that when it comes to funding, “the athlete, not federations, those fat cats, must be given priority.”