Title: Suspension of the Russian national Olympic committee: what consequences for international sport?
Sports news is marked by an important decision from the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Indeed, the IOC announced the suspension of the Russian national Olympic committee for having placed under its authority several sports organizations in the occupied Ukrainian regions. This sanction is in addition to the ban on any international competition on Russian and Belarusian soil since the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
The IOC’s decision was motivated by the violation of Ukraine’s territorial integrity by Russian sports authorities. The IOC emphasizes that this action is contrary to the Olympic Charter which advocates the neutrality and integrity of national Olympic committees.
This suspension provoked contrasting reactions. The Russian National Olympic Committee denounces a “political” and “counterproductive” decision. He judges that the IOC has taken a position since the start of the conflict and that it does not respect its principled neutrality.
For its part, the Ukrainian presidency welcomes this decision and considers it important for Ukraine. She believes that sport cannot be separated from politics when terrorist countries commit genocide against Ukraine and use athletes as propaganda.
This suspension also raises questions about the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in future Olympic Games. The IOC clarified that this decision has no impact on the presence of athletes under a neutral banner at the Paris Olympics in 2024 and those of Milan-Cortina in 2026. The fate of Russian and Belarusian athletes will be decided “at the moment appropriate” and “closer to the Games”.
It is important to note that the IOC has fluctuated in its position regarding the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in international competitions. Initially, the IOC advocated their exclusion, then recommended their reintegration under a neutral banner, under certain conditions. This delicate position aims to reconcile the principle of non-discrimination of athletes and the fear of boycotts from other countries.
Finally, it should be noted that the suspension of the Russian national Olympic committee leaves suspense surrounding the participation of Russian athletes in the next Olympic Games. The IOC will later decide, on a date convenient to it, on the presence of Russian athletes at the Olympics.
In conclusion, the suspension of the Russian National Olympic Committee by the IOC marks a new stage in the sanctions taken against Russia since the invasion of Ukraine. This decision raises questions about the participation of Russian athletes in international competitions and maintains suspense over their presence at the next Olympic Games. To be continued.