Phil Andrews, Managing Director of the USA Fencing Federation (USA Fencing), commented on the International Fencing Federation’s (FIE) decision to allow athletes from Russia and Belarus to participate in its auspices. Andrews quotes Reuters.
“The vote of more than 80 delegates for the return of the Russian and Belarusian athletes does not directly endorse Russia’s actions, but sends a signal to the world that a large part of the fencing community is ready to turn a blind eye to many things. Previously, 77% of delegates voted to extend the suspension. What changed in 104 days? Andrews said.
89 people voted for the acceptance of Russians and Belarusians, 46 – against.
The decision should come into effect from the second half of April 2023 for the World Fencing Championships to be held in Milan in July. Russian and Belarusian fencers must compete on a neutral status.
Recall that in February 2022, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) made a recommendation to international federations not to allow Russian athletes to participate in official competitions.
Tatyana Tarasova, former Honored coach of the USSR in figure skating commented The decision of the FIE on the admission of athletes from Russia and Belarus to the competition.