Should Russian athletes be allowed to compete at the 2024 Olympics in Paris, some of Ukraine ’s allies could decide to boycott the prestigious event - that's according to a former leading IOC figure.
Both Russian and Belarusian athletes were banned from international competitions or forced to compete under a neutral name and flag since war ensued in Ukraine almost a year ago. However, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced last month that it will explore proposals to allow competitors from exiled nations back into international competition, with qualifiers for Paris due to start soon.
The IOC stated they would investigate from the Olympic Council of Asia to “facilitate the participation of athletes from Russia and Belarus in competitions in Asia under its authority, while respecting the sanctions in place” — such as the flying of the two countries’ national flags or use of national colours. Gerhard Heiberg, the Norwegian industrialist who served as an IOC member for 23 years including 13 as head of its marketing commission, said it was “far too early” to allow Russians athletes back into international sporting events.
