Kiudma, who had been Veerpalu's doctor for several years, told Postimees on August 24 that he would not renew his contract with the Ski Federation.

"Neither I nor the federation have expressed a desire to extend the contract," said Kiudma.

A doping test found Veerpalu to have a higher-than-permitted level of human growth hormone just before the skier had suspiciously brought his career to an abrupt end on the eve of the Holmenkollen world championship in February. On August 22, International Ski Federation's anti-doping committee ruled that the test results would stand.

In its decision, the committee said that the substance could not have entered the body accidentally, but required specialist skills and assistance from medical professionals.

When asked whether he would take responsibility for the Veerpalu incident, Kiudma replied: "I didn't say that. But it will be better if I don't stay in this position. The more so in light of the fact that everyone is now demanding that the slate be wiped clean."

Steve Roman