The Russian Olympic Committee, led by President Stanislav Pozdnyakov, made clear that it will not fund neutral Russian athletes who compete at the Paris Olympics. Pozdnyakov emphasized that any athlete who begins receiving support from the country’s National Olympic Committee would breach the guidelines they signed and face suspension. In practical terms, the consequence would be double punishment for the athlete involved.
<pAccording to the ROC, the International Olympic Committee has prohibited national Olympic committees from providing direct funding to neutral Russian competitors who participate under a neutral flag. This stance aligns with the broader framework established by the IOC as it manages the participation of Russian athletes in Paris.
<pEarlier, the IOC announced six quotas allowing Russian athletes to compete at the Olympic Games. Russian competitors who meet performance criteria will be permitted to participate, but they must adhere to updated terms of participation. These terms require a commitment to uphold the Olympic Charter and the peaceful mission of the Olympic movement, reinforcing the idea that sport should remain free from political influence while still respecting governance standards. The emphasis is on fair competition and the integrity of the Olympic process.
<pThe conditions for Russia’s return to the international arena have been clarified by statements from key figures in Russian sport and administration. These conditions outline the expectations placed on athletes and national bodies as they rejoin the global stage, including conduct in international events and compliance with Olympic rules and spirit. The framework aims to balance competitive opportunities with the responsibility to respect the values of Olympism and the rules that govern the Games.