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The IOC president emphasized that adherence to the Olympic movement’s rules is the key to reestablishing IOC membership for the Russian Olympic Committee. He noted that any national committee that commits to the charter’s requirements can be considered for a return, and that the decision ultimately rests with the ROC itself. He expressed a clear expectation that the ROC would demonstrate alignment with the Olympic values before any path to reentry could be pursued. [citation: IOC leadership statements]

In early 2022, the IOC urged international sports federations to take a careful stance, recommending that Russian and Belarusian athletes not participate in international competitions. The aim, as articulated by IOC leadership at the time, was to protect the integrity of the Olympic Movement while maintaining a focus on safety and the broader sporting ecosystem. This guidance reflected a broad concern for how geopolitical events intersect with international sport and the ongoing scrutiny over eligibility rules. [citation: IOC guidance]

For athletes seeking to qualify for the Olympic Games, the IOC indicated that updated participation conditions would apply. Among these commitments, athletes would need to acknowledge and respect the Olympic Charter, including the movement’s peaceful mission. The policy outlined that athletes from Russia and Belarus would not be counted toward the medal tally while their eligibility was under review, reinforcing the organization’s emphasis on fairness, equality, and adherence to core Olympic principles. [citation: Olympic policies]

Looking ahead to the Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games, the schedule was set to run from late July to the early days of August. The event remained a focal point for athletes around the world, including those from Russia and Belarus, as national committees navigated the evolving eligibility and participation criteria. The discussion around participation continued to shape preparation strategies, athlete support systems, and the broader international sporting dialogue. [citation: Paris 2024 overview]

There have been ongoing discussions, including remarks from Kremlin officials, about the conditions under which Russian participation might be allowed. The discourse underscored the complexity of aligning national sports governance with global Olympic standards, and it highlighted the careful diplomacy required to reach a consensus that satisfies multi-party stakeholders. [citation: official statements]