When it comes to the 3,000-meter steeplechase, France’s Mahiedine Mekhissi-Benabbad is quite accomplished. He took home the silver medal in the event at both the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing as well as the London games in 2012. Mekhissi-Benabbad also captured the gold at the 2010 and 2012 European Championships.
During this year’s European Championships, the 29-year-old established a commanding lead in the 3,000-meter steeplechase final when he decided to prematurely celebrate his pending victory. Comfortably ahead, Mekhissi-Benabbad removed his shirt, put it in his mouth, and motioned toward the crowd. He then cruised the rest of the way to the finish line.
As you can probably imagine, Mekhissi-Benabbad’s display didn’t go over to well with some. Spain protested, leading to this decision.
JURY OF APPEAL DECISION: Mahiedine Mekhissi-Benabbad is disqualified from 1st place in the men's 3000m steeplechase after Spain protest.
— Zurich 2014 (@Euro_Champs) August 14, 2014
Fellow Frenchman Yoann Kowal is now officially listed as the winner, because his teammate did this.
H/T Bleacher Report
