Georgian swimmer Irakli Bolkvadze has tested negative for banned substances. So, it turned out that he missed the 2016 Summer Olympics in vain. The information about positive result was known just before the start of the Olympics and Bolkvadze was replaced by Irakli Revishvili.

Bolkvadze made a statement: “Hello! Perhaps, everyone is aware of the recent events why I could not depart for the Olympics.

First of all, I want to thank those people who supported me during these difficult days for me. You gave me stimulus to prove that it was a mistake.

I promise I will not leave any question and doubt without answer. I started my career at the age of 10 – my success always excluded any banned substances.

It is necessary for athletes to take supplements of protein and amino acids. I also took such vitamins which are available for everybody.

As for the banned substances, it was unexpected for me and I wonder how it got in my blood. The investigation is going on. B test is already sent and after its answer I will know what to do to prove that the result is wrong!

I want to thank everybody again and ask not to make hasty conclusions”.

And now Irakli wrote good news on his Facebook page: “I have good news! I received disputed test results which as I expected, turned out to be negative. This result proves that there was a mistake. The investigation will determine the cause of inaccuracy of the first test.

I will hold a press conference about this issue. I would like to thank everybody who believed in me! Major victories are ahead!”