6 Apr 2011

Greek sprinters on trial for fakin accident

9:08 am on 6 April 2011

The doping-linked Greek sprinters Costas Kenteris and Katerina Thanou are facing reduced sentences if convicted in a perjury trial.

The Sydney Olympic medalists are on trial, accused of faking a motorcycle accident on the eve of the Athens Games in 2004 after missing a doping test that led to their sporting suspension.

The perjury charge carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.

Public persecutor Giorgos Petrou urged the court on Wednesday to reduce their sentence if convicted, accusing their coach Christos Tzekos of being primarily responsible of allegedly faking the accident.

A panel of three judges is expected to issue its ruling next week.