
The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) on Saturday approved the participation of up to 500 Russian and Belarusian athletes without national symbols at this year’s Asian Games in Hangzhou, China.
The move is aimed at helping the athletes qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics at a time when Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has led to many sporting events barring Russian and Belarusian competitors. They will compete only in individual events and will not be eligible for medals at the Asian Games.