Six Nations Call for Continued Ban on Russian and Belarusian Athletes
Six countries have jointly urged that Russian and Belarusian athletes not be allowed to return to international competition. The notice, issued through Inside the Games, calls for a firm stance until further notice.
The declaration was signed by sports ministers from the Czech Republic, Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, Slovakia, and Poland. They note that the question of reinstating Russian and Belarusian competitors remains under active discussion at present.
Representatives from these nations stressed their belief that the policy preventing Russia and Belarus from participating in any form of international sport must be kept in place. The unity of their position is underscored by a shared history and a collective sense of responsibility to preserve competitive integrity and safety in sport.
The signatories acknowledged their belief that relaxing the ban would send a misleading signal at a time when the Ukrainian sports community requires solidarity and consistent backing. They argue that now, more than ever, a clear and unwavering approach is essential to demonstrate support for Ukraine and its athletes.
They referenced the IOC statement issued on 25 January, which proposed the possibility of allowing Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete again under a neutral status, including potential participation in the upcoming Olympic Games. The signatories expressed surprise and strong disapproval at that proposal, describing it as incongruent with the broader political and humanitarian context surrounding the conflict.
In their view, the IOC’s openness to reintegrating athletes from Russia and Belarus into international events risks undermining ongoing efforts to maintain a unified front across international sport. The Ministers argue that sporting bodies should refrain from endorsing any changes that could be perceived as legitimizing the actions that prompted the original ban.
The document also recalls IOC President Thomas Bach’s call for governments to refrain from intervening in decisions about athlete admissions to international competition. The ministers emphasize that government positions can have a decisive influence on how sport remains a forum for peaceful competition and a space that upholds fairness and safety for all participants.
Additionally, the statement cites the views of former Deputy Dmitry Svishchev, who pointed to shortcomings in Russia’s engagement with the IOC. The assertion highlights perceived gaps in communication and accountability that, in the signatories’ view, should guide any future discussions about reinstatement. The overall tone stresses a cautious, principled approach rather than a quick reversal of a policy that was put in place for broad strategic reasons.
As the debate continues, supporters of the current stance argue that allowing a gradual return under neutral terms could blur the lines of accountability and complicate political messages related to the crisis in Ukraine. Opponents of such a shift contend that maintaining the ban preserves a clear ethical boundary and upholds the long-standing norms of international sport rooted in fair play and mutual respect.
Observers note that the evolving dialogue between sport and politics remains delicate. The six signatories insist that any decision on reentry must be made with careful consideration of regional stability, the safety of athletes, and the broader goal of supporting Ukrainian sports communities that have faced disruption and hardship. They call for ongoing consultation with international federations, national Olympic committees, and relevant stakeholders to ensure that any potential changes are thoughtfully weighed and clearly communicated to all parties involved. (Inside the Games)