State Duma deputy and Olympic speed skating champion Svetlana Zhurova weighed in on the ongoing exchanges between the International Olympic Committee and the European Parliament. She argued that political pressure is steering the IOC toward actions that would betray the Olympic charter, a document formed more than a century ago to guide sport above politics. Zhurova quoted an IOC statement as saying that public outcry and political demands threaten athlete rights and undermine the democratic spirit of sport, a sentiment she framed as a warning to lawmakers.
Earlier, the European Parliament voiced strong concerns about the IOC’s stance on whether Russian and Belarusian athletes should compete in the 2024 Olympic Games. In response, the IOC noted that a final decision had not yet been made on admission. The organization also asserted that the European Parliament’s resolution appears to challenge the autonomy of sports bodies and the unifying purpose of the Olympic Movement.
IOC President Thomas Bach has repeatedly called on governments not to interfere in the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in international competitions. The remarks underscore a continuing tension between political authorities and sports governance over how to balance inclusivity, fairness, and the integrity of competition.
Formerly Alexander Tikhonov urged the European Parliament to distance itself from sport and allow athletic bodies to lead the decisions that affect athletes on the world stage.
In Canada and the United States, observers note that international sports policy remains a flashpoint for debates about national interests, athlete rights, and the responsibilities of global organizations. The situation highlights how available avenues for dialogue between political institutions and sports bodies can influence the careers of athletes and the perception of fairness across major competitions. These discussions continue to shape how athletes are represented and protected under evolving rules and standards. This evolving landscape is watched closely by fans, national federations, and the media, who seek clarity on how political considerations intersect with Olympic ideals. Attribution: coverage summarized from official statements and public commentary from sports governance sources.