Eduard Latypov, three-time bronze medalist of the 2022 Olympics in biathlon, shared his opinion on the possible admission of Russian athletes to international competitions.
On January 25, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced that it was considering the possibility of allowing Russian athletes who did not support a special operation in Ukraine to participate in international competitions with neutral status.
“I can’t comment on that yet because there is no clarity. Many talk, but this is just the usual opinion of people. When there is already a certain procedure for the return of the national teams of Russia and Belarus, then everyone should really think about it.
This will be decided jointly by both the Ministry of Sports and our sports federations. There will be some discussion and it is unlikely that someone will say “I want” and leave. We are running for our country and this will be a very important decision not only for every athlete, but for all of Russia.
Now these conversations are just dust to provoke people in some way. It’s more annoying than calming. I am waiting for more accurate information. In any case, we are preparing and making optimistic plans for our return to the international arena, God forbid, ”reports the athlete. “Championship.com”.
Lithuanian Minister of Education, Science and Sports Jurgita Shyugzhdinene said earlier in an online meeting that 35 countries oppose Russia and Belarus’ participation in the 2024 Olympics. These included the USA, Germany and Australia.
Former Minister of Sports and Tourism of Poland Kamil Bortnichuk declarationHe said his country is ready to blackmail the IOC by boycotting the 2024 Olympics if Russian and Belarusian athletes participate in the Games.