Vice-champion of European Weightlifting Championship Araik Mirzoyan (77 kg) is distressed over being deprived of the championship gold because of the referee mistake.

Mirzoyan, similarly to Turkish sportsman Semih Yagci, lifted 347 kg in clean and jerk discipline, yielding only in personal weight factor. However, Yagci performed the third attempt at jerk lift with his kneed bent, which is a mistake the referees failed to notice.

“I’d sincerely congratulate the winner, had it been a fair victory. However, I feel I was unfairly deprived of a gold medal. After the competition the Turkish side brought apologies, as well as the arbiters, who, however, noted that the verdict is final,” Mirzoyan told a PanARMENIAN.Net reporter.

According to the weightlifter, Armenian Weightlifting Federation has already addressed the International Federation, appealing against the arbiters’ decision.

Before the World Championship, Mirzoyan intends to change his weight category to 85 kg. “I’m satisfied with my recent performance; however, I aim for better results at the World Championship,” he said.