The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has laid out a detailed plan to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete in the 2024 Summer Games in Paris and the 2026 Winter Games in Milan.
“No athlete should be prevented from competing just because of their passport,” stated the IOC’s executive board.
While continuing sanctions against Russian and Belarusian state and government officials, and prohibiting sporting events organized by their federations, the IOC reaffirmed its stance. The board unanimously agreed to strengthen these existing sanctions.
The IOC emphasized its commitment to Ukrainian athletes and the Ukrainian Olympic community, pledging support to ensure a strong Ukrainian presence at the Paris and Milan Games.
For Russian and Belarusian athletes to participate, they must compete as “neutral athletes,” without representing their countries or any associated organizations.
The IOC specified that “no flag, anthem, colours or any other identifications whatsoever of these countries” would be permitted at any sports event or venue.
However, Global Athlete and Ukrainian Athletes, in a joint statement, criticized the IOC’s decision, arguing that allowing Russian and Belarusian athletes to participate only bolsters “Russia’s propaganda machine.”