Koshelev discusses Russia’s potential Olympic success in bowling amid IOC suspensions
Nikita Koshelev, a member of the Russian bowling team, weighed in on Russia’s prospects for earning an Olympic medal in the sport. He referenced the enduring spirit of Soviet sports when speaking about the program’s future, noting that bowling has been steadily gaining popularity and attracting new players each year. Koshelev pointed out that Russian athletes have already earned international medals across a range of competitions, and he suggested that if bowling remains part of the Olympic program and reaffirms Russia’s ties to the Olympic family, it could contribute additional medals to the national treasury over time. This optimism reflects a broader belief within the sport that continued participation and development at the highest levels can translate into Olympic success. [IOC analysis, 2022; Russian Bowling Federation remarks]
In late February 2022, the International Olympic Committee issued guidance to international sports federations advising that Russian and Belarusian athletes should be barred from competing due to the evolving situation in Ukraine. Following this guidance, global sporting bodies imposed restrictions that prevented Russian competitors from taking part in events outside the country. The measures were part of a coordinated response aimed at preserving the integrity and safety of international competition. [IOC press release, 2022; Global governing bodies statements]
On October 12, the IOC announced the suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee until further notice. The move came after the inclusion of the Olympic Councils of the DPR, LPR, Zaporozhye and Kherson regions into the Russian organization, triggering structural changes that affected Russia’s Olympic governance. This development further isolated the national committee from international Olympic activities and shaped the trajectory of Russia’s participation in global sports. [IOC decision, 2022; Official IOC communications]
Earlier comments from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted concerns about distortions in the ideas of the Olympic movement. The department stressed the importance of safeguarding the core values and legitimacy of the Olympic spirit amidst political and organizational shifts. The dialogue underscored how geopolitical tensions can intersect with sport, influencing governance, eligibility, and the participation rights of athletes and national committees. [Ministry of Foreign Affairs statements, 2022; Policy briefs on Olympic governance]