Tue 28 March 2023:
Olympic chiefs recommend returning Russian and Belarusian athletes to competition as individuals under a neutral flag with no links to the military.
International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach said the IOC had recommended to international federations and event organisers that “athletes with a Russian or a Belarusian passport must compete only as Individual Neutral Athletes”.
The committee added that “teams of athletes with a Russian or Belarusian passport cannot be considered”.
Also missing out will be “athletes who actively support the war” and “athletes who are contracted to the Russian or Belarusian military or national security agencies”.
Additionally, “no flag, anthem, colours or any other identifications whatsoever of these countries displayed at any sports event or meeting, including the entire venue”, and “no Russian and Belarusian government or state official can be invited to or accredited for any international sports event or meeting”.
Poland slams Olympic chiefs’ ‘day of shame’
Poland has slammed Olympic chiefs for their “day of shame” after they recommended that Russian and Belarusian athletes return to competition as individuals under a neutral flag with no links to the military.
“What positive things has Russia done for their athletes to now take part in competitions!! After Bucha, Irpin, Hostomel!! After the daily bombings of civilian sites!! It’s a day of shame for the IOC!!” Deputy Foreign Minister Piotr Wawrzyk said on Twitter.
SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES
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