Ana Maria Bărbosu, provisionally suspended: Covaliu supports her return to gymnastics

Ana Maria Bărbosu, a Romanian gymnast, has been provisionally suspended by the International Testing Agency (ITA) due to three violations of location reporting over a period of 12 months.

Mihai Covaliu, the president of the Romanian Olympic and Sports Committee (COSR), stated that this situation is a difficult moment for Romanian sports, but he believes that Bărbosu can make a strong comeback, considering the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles as motivation. Covaliu emphasized the importance of support for the athlete, who is going through a tough time, and mentioned that the Romanian Gymnastics Federation should have been more actively involved to prevent this situation.

Bărbosu, a student at Stanford University, has requested that the case be adjudicated by the Court of Arbitration - Sports Anti-Doping Division, having the opportunity to provide explanations.

According to anti-doping regulations, violations of location reporting can lead to severe penalties, even without positive tests. Covaliu reaffirmed COSR's commitment to support the athlete during this difficult period.