Former two-time gold medallist and disgraced shooter, Michael Diamond is preparing to make a shock appearance at the Paris Olympics, 2024.
The six-time Greek-Australian Olympian was banned for shooting for his country [Australia], yet is now poised to coach against his homeland after taking the Qatar job vacated by his longtime Olympic teammate, Russell Mark.
According to The Advertiser, Diamond’s firearm licence was withdrawn in 2018 after he was found guilty of drink-driving and firearms charges in Port Stephens in 2017, later being acquitted of the three firearms charges on appeal.
Diamond was caught with a shotgun and ammo in his car, and his blood alcohol level was three times the legal limit.
After winning shooting gold at the Atlanta (1996) and Sydney (2000) Games, Diamond intended to represent Australia at the Paris Olympics in July, but he failed in his effort to get his guns licence renewed, ruling him out of contention.
The Qatar squad qualified for Paris under Mark’s coaching, and it is now Diamond’s responsibility to lead the country to the games.
Source: The Advertiser
