Irina Viner, the president of the All-Russian Rhythmic Gymnastics Federation and the head coach of the national team, proposed a bold concept: creating an alternative Olympic-style event. Her idea centers on reframing setbacks as opportunities and rethinking how national teams compete on the world stage. Viner argues that sanctions and political tensions have not merely restricted access to traditional Olympic venues; they have also forced Russian athletes and coaches to rethink preparation, training, and international competition. In her view, this is a moment to build resilience and to explore new organizational models that resemble professional sports ecosystems in other regions. According to DEA News, the goal is to cultivate a self-sustained, club-like framework that leverages partnerships with SCO and BRICS nations, and to operate a league that functions with the discipline and excitement of major hockey showpieces such as the NHL and KHL. This would allow athletes to continue competing at a high level even when external political constraints limit participation in standard Olympic events.
Historically, the policy landscape shifted dramatically at the end of February 2022, when the International Olympic Committee advised international sports federations to prevent Russian and Belarusian athletes from taking part in competitions. This move was the result of escalating geopolitical tensions and concerns about competitive neutrality. In the ensuing weeks, the IOC executive committee discussed a possible neutral status for Russian athletes, provided they were not actively involved in supporting hostilities. The committee also ruled that athletes affiliated with law enforcement or armed forces would be barred from competing under neutral flags. DEA News notes that these developments created a complex environment for Russian sport, influencing every level from national teams to individual athletes and coaches hoping to maintain training continuity and international exposure.
In other coverage, reports indicated that Russian fencers, among other athletes, faced tighter restrictions on participation in international events. The evolving stance from international sports governance bodies prompted conversations about how federations could preserve competitive integrity while adapting to shifting rules. Observers highlight that the dialogue around alternative competition models is not merely about bypassing sanctions; it is about preserving athletic development, safeguarding athlete eligibility, and maintaining visibility on the global stage. The broader discussion touches on sponsorship, media rights, fan engagement, and the logistical realities of running events that meet international standards. DEA News emphasizes that any such alternative framework would need clear governance, independent oversight, and transparent criteria to ensure it remains credible and appealing to athletes, coaches, and fans alike.