The IOC is considering allowing Russians and Belarusians to participate in international competitions under a neutral flag

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has not yet made a final decision on the participation of representatives of the Russian Federation and Belarus in international competitions, in particular, at the 2024 Olympic Games. However, the possibility of their admission is being considered, but only under the condition that they participate as neutral athletes who will not use the symbols of their countries. This was stated by Vadym Gutzeit, Minister of Youth and Sports of Ukraine and President of the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine, during a telethon.

Mr. Gutzeit emphasized that he had talked to the IOC about this issue, and no final decision has been made on the admission of Russian and Belarusian athletes to international competitions. However, if such a possibility arises, it will be done only on the condition that they participate under a neutral flag, i.e. without using the symbols of their countries - Russia and Belarus.

Vadym Gutzeit noted that Ukraine has already secured 9 Olympic licenses and continues to compete for licenses at international competitions where there are no athletes from Russia and Belarus. He expressed hope that Ukrainian athletes, together with the national Olympic family and federations, will make an informed decision on participation in the Olympic Games. At the same time, Gutzeit emphasized that Ukrainian athletes also have the right to express their views on this topic and hopes that the international community will also take their positions into account.

In the context of this situation, the IOC continues to study the possibility of allowing Russian and Belarusian athletes to participate in international competitions. It is worth noting that Ukraine, as the host country, is actively working to ensure balance and stability in the 2024 Olympic Games, taking into account all the nuances and possible alternatives for the participation of athletes from different countries. The overall result will be determined on the basis of objective factors and a dialogue between all stakeholders.