Russia confirms curler Krushelnitsky’s positive doping, but ...

PYEONGCHANG — Russian sports officials have started a criminal investigation into how the banned drug meldonium entered the system of Olympic curler Alexander Krushelnitsky, whose failed test was a blow to Russia’s chances of rehabilitation from a doping scandal that tainted the country’s performances at the past several Olympics.

Krushelnitsky’s initial failed drug test was confirmed by a second test, but Russian officials said in a statement Tuesday that the level of the drug found in his system suggested he took the drug just once, something that would be “absolutely useless and ineffective in the context of enhancing physical performance or sports results.”

Krushelnitsky, who denied taking the drug found in his system, competed in mixed doubles curling with his wife, winning the bronze medal.

An arbitration hearing is expected to take place Wednesday.

In December, Russia’s national Olympic committee was barred from participating in the 2018 Games as part of punishment for the state-backed doping program that corrupted the ’14 Sochi Olympics. Russian athletes are participating here as neutrals.

The International Olympic Committee has said the Russians could march under their own flag for the closing ceremony if they meet several requirements, one of which included pledging to be faithful to the global antidoping code. A decision on Russia’s status is expected Saturday.