Vyacheslav Fetisov, a two-time Olympic champion and a deputy in the State Duma, argues that Russia could seek compensation for both moral and financial losses stemming from the decision not to admit athletes. He spoke with Sports Express, outlining his position on the issue.
The former athlete emphasizes that sport has long served as a universal bridge, capable of uniting people across all kinds of circumstances. He notes that the International Olympic Committee is currently navigating a delicate moment: punishing some athletes while allowing others would create an untenable inconsistency. Fetisov suggests that Russia possesses an additional instrument to respond, one that goes beyond material damages. He proposes presenting claims for moral harm to the decision makers, a strategy he believes could shape outcomes through legal and official channels. In his view, this approach would set a significant precedent and reflect the seriousness with which Russian sports authorities and seasoned lawyers are prepared to engage. The point is not merely financial but symbolic, signaling the depth of impact on athletes and their communities and highlighting that sports governance must be fair and coherent under international rules. [Citation: Fetisov interview with Sports Express and subsequent statements by Russian sports officials]
In late February 2022, the International Olympic Committee issued a call to international sports federations advising that Russian and Belarusian athletes should be barred from participation in competitions. This move, widely reported at the time, was framed as a response to broader geopolitical events and the desire to preserve the integrity of international sport. [Citation: IOC resolution narrative, 2022]
Looking ahead to the Paris Games, organizers outlined updated participation terms for Russian athletes. The requirement would be to reaffirm commitment to the Olympic Charter, including support for the peaceful mission of the Olympic Movement. Athletes who meet high standards in their respective disciplines could be eligible to compete, provided they agree to the revised terms and demonstrate alignment with the charter’s principles. The emphasis on ethical conduct and adherence to Olympic ideals remains central to the qualification framework. [Citation: Paris Games participation guidelines, 2023–2024]
Earlier remarks by Rodnina touched on resilience and the possibility of a Russian return to the international arena, including potential implications for the U.S. political landscape. These comments underscored the broader intersection of sport, diplomacy, and national sentiment, illustrating how athletic participation can become part of larger dialogues about national presence on the world stage. [Citation: Rodnina public statements, context 2022–2024]