Japan's Gymnastics Hopeful Faces Suspension Over Smoking Allegations Ahead of Paris Games

Shoko Miyata, the 19-year-old captain of Japan's women's artistic gymnastics team, faces potential dismissal before the Paris Games for allegedly smoking, violating the team's code of conduct. The Japanese Gymnastics Association is investigating, and Miyata may be sent home from Monaco training camp. Hopes are high for a team medal since 1964.

Shoko Miyata, the 19-year-old captain of Japan's women's artistic gymnastics team, may be dismissed from the squad prior to the Paris Games for allegedly violating the team's code of conduct by smoking, Kyodo News reported on Thursday.

The Japanese Gymnastics Association (JGA) is investigating the situation, with Miyata expected to be sent home from the team's training camp in Monaco, according to the report.

Hopes are high for the Japan women's gymnastics team, aiming for a team medal at the Paris Games, a first since the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. Miyata secured her Paris berth in May after winning her third consecutive NHK trophy and was set to lead a team of first-time Olympians and teenagers.

(With inputs from agencies.)