The president of the Lithuanian National Olympic Committee voiced strong doubts about a boycott of the 2024 Games, arguing that inviting athletes from Russia and Belarus to compete despite ongoing political tensions would set a troubling precedent. The stance was shared in discussions that highlighted how nations respond when flags are absent and national anthems are not heard, yet the competition continues and athletes strive for results as representatives of their sports, not their governments.
She emphasized that a boycott would not wear down the Russian and Belarusian teams. Instead, it could become a catalyst for them to feel vindicated, while the broader goal of loyalty to sport might suffer. The commentary, captured by LRT, suggested that participation remains essential to the integrity of international competition and to the athletes who train for years to reach the world stage.
Historically, the Olympic movement has faced intense debates about eligibility and participation in response to geopolitical events. In late February 2022, the International Olympic Committee urged international sports federations to consider excluding Russian and Belarusian athletes from competitions, signaling a clear stance at a time of global tension. The guidance reflected a broader effort to separate sports from politics while addressing the realities on the ground and the pressures faced by organizers around the world.
Subsequently, during a meeting of the IOC executive committee on March 28, officials discussed the possibility of allowing Russian athletes to compete under a neutral flag, provided they were not involved in any active hostilities. The decision also established a boundary for certain participants—those tied to law enforcement or armed forces would not be permitted to compete, signaling a nuanced approach that sought to balance neutrality with accountability and the safety concerns surrounding the conflict.
Among those commenting on the evolving policy was Giovanni Malago, who previously led the Italian National Olympic Committee. He spoke about the approval process surrounding the IOC recommendations and the implications for Russian athletes seeking a place at major events. The discussions underscored how national Olympic bodies interpret and apply IOC guidance, sometimes leading to divergent national interpretations while continuing to align with the overall objectives of the Olympic Charter and the spirit of fair competition.