Come on, guys - it's blown way out of proportion. Crawling over the hot asphalt while having your bellybutton kicked was considered a mild punishment in either soviet army or sports.
"Amature" athletes in totalitarian countries enjoy immense privileges compared to the mere mortals - no need to work, appartments, cars, jobs for family members, governmental awards - orders, medals, etc., ample material compensation, friendship and company of important officials, public adoration, access abroad, immunity from the prosecution in mild cases such as rape, maiming and mayhem, etc.
It is only natural there is a price attached to that. When you sup with a devil...
Not that I condone the treatment, but it's the whole totalitarian regime that is a problem.
miko