IOC Allows Russian and Belarusian Athletes as Neutrals for Paris 2024 Olympics
The International Olympic Committee's recent decision to permit Russian and Belarusian athletes as neutrals in the Paris 2024 Olympics sparks controversy amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
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The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has granted approval for Russian and Belarusian athletes to participate in the Paris 2024 games as neutrals, devoid of national flags, emblems, or anthems. The decision, outlined by the IOC Executive Board, applies to Individual Neutral Athletes qualifying through existing systems. No official venue or function will display any identification of Russia or Belarus.
Athletes supporting the war in Ukraine will be ineligible, and the same restriction extends to supporting personnel. The IOC clarified that no Russian or Belarusian government or state officials will be invited or accredited for the Paris Games.
Ukraine strongly criticized the decision, asserting that Russian athletes, sharing passports with occupiers, bear responsibility for the ongoing conflict. Acting Minister of Youth and Sports Matviy Bidnyi decried neutrality during a war as tacit acquiescence to murderers. The IOC's move comes after previous bans and restrictions on Russian and Belarusian athletes in various global competitions since the conflict's onset.
In March, IOC President Thomas Bach recommended the return of Russian and Belarusian athletes to competitions as neutral participants.
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