Press Secretary to the President of Russia Dmitry Peskov believes that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) should think about its attitude towards Russian athletes. His words are quoted “Sports Express”.
“Of course, the leadership of the International Olympic Committee needs to think very carefully about the decisions it will make regarding our country. And consider the concept of “double standards.” They turn a blind eye to situations in other parts of the world. What is happening around Ukraine suddenly becomes the center of attention. Sports should be free from politics. “They need to think about this because there is a threat,” Peskov said.
At the end of February 2022, the IOC issued a call to international sports federations and recommended that Russian and Belarusian athletes not be allowed to participate in any competitions.
To qualify for the Games, Russian athletes will have to sign updated conditions of participation that include a commitment to respect the Olympic Charter, including the “peaceful mission of the Olympic movement”, the IOC said. Russian athletes who rank well in their own disciplines will be allowed to compete.
Former Olympic medalist from Russia expressed Principled attitude towards neutral status.