Russian Ski Racing Federation (FLGR) President Elena Vyalbe said that she did not see it as a sadness that Russians missed the Paris Olympic Games. His words were quoted RIA News.
“Avoid going to the Olympics? Yes, not to avoid, but to spit on them. I’m a tough person, everyone knows that. Also, everyone knows how much I love the athletes I work with.
It’s really sad that we won’t be able to go to the Olympic Games, but that’s not sadness. It is painful for a mother to lose her child, this is pain. Now more than ever we need to be united. Only from unity comes strength and victory,” Vyalbe said.
At the end of February 2022, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) appealed to international sports federations, recommending that Russian and Belarusian athletes not be allowed to participate in any competitions.
The IOC said Russian athletes will be required to sign updated conditions of participation, which include a commitment to respect the Olympic Charter, including the “peaceful mission of the Olympic movement”. Russian athletes who rank well in their own disciplines will be allowed to compete. They will perform in a neutral status.
Previously reportedthat all Russian gymnasts refused to compete at the Olympic Games on a neutral status.