“The discussion could have turned out to be atmospheric, open and lively” – Shvetsky about Seppelt’s refusal to attend the trial

Former Russian figure skating team doctor Philip Shvetsky told that he was upset by German journalist Hajo Seppelt’s decision not to send his representatives to the hearing.

In November, the Nikulinsky Court of Moscow began to consider the merits of Shvetsky’s complaint against Seppelt for the protection of honor, dignity and business reputation. The trial, registered on July 26, is related to a film made by a German journalist regarding the details of the doping case of Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva and the possible connection between Shvetsky and this case. Seppelt also claimed the doctor was involved in the scandal over the disqualification of six Russian rowers before the 2008 Olympics in Beijing.

Earlier on Thursday, Seppelt told RIA Novosti Sport that his legal representatives would not attend the hearing on January 24.

— Its representatives won’t be there, that’s a shame. In the modern world there is such a lack of verbal communication, and I would be very happy to have such an opportunity – the discussion could turn out to be atmospheric, open and lively.

Does this increase your chances of winning? I do not and cannot have a preference in our court; such an opinion is fundamentally wrong, since the court treated the entire process strictly and responsibly, from application to proof. Which will undoubtedly lead to a fair result, despite the absence of Hajo Seppelt,” Shvetsky told .

Earlier in November, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) held hearings into Valieva’s doping case. The decision will be announced in January.