At the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, Iranian judoka Arash Miresmaeili was disqualified for weighing in at nearly four pounds above the limit for his weight class of his under-66 kilograms match against an Israeli opponent Ehud Vaks in the first round. It was claimed Miresmaeili had gone on an eating binge to protest the International Olympic Committee's recognition of the state of Israel. Iran does not recognise the state of Israel, and Miresmaeili's actions won praise from high-ranking Iranian officials. Mohammad Khatami, the country's President at the time, was quoted as saying Miresmaili's actions would be "recorded in the history of Iranian glories". He was later awarded $125,000 by the Government - the same amount given to Olympic gold medallists.
The position will help maintain the safety of NBA employees, facilities, special events and critical information throughout the European region. This position will be the Security Department's primary point of contact for all security matters, including the security of games and special events in the European region. This role will also include developing appropriate law enforcement liaisons, conducting investigations and other duties, such as facilities and personnel security as assigned.
With the European Athletics Championships due to begin in Berlin, Mike Rowbottom explores the history of the German capital's Olympic Stadium - an arena which has witnessed its fair share of history.