As the countdown to the Paris Olympics reaches the 100-day mark, the fate of Russian athletes hangs in the balance. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has set conditions for Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, leaving the participation of Russian athletes in doubt.
The IOC anticipates that 36 to 54 Russian athletes may qualify for the Paris Olympics. However, they would compete as 'neutral athletes,' unable to display national symbols or participate in team sports. Athletes with military ties or supportive of the war are prohibited.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has tasked the Russian Olympic Committee and Sports Ministry with deciding whether Russian athletes should compete. While the ROC President criticizes the IOC's criteria, the Sports Minister advocates for participation to maintain dialogue.
Despite opposition from Ukraine, the IOC President indicated that threats of boycotts are no longer a concern. The possibility of a neutral Russian delegation comprising combat sports athletes and top tennis players like Daniil Medvedev is being considered.
However, Ukrainian activists monitor Russian athletes' social media for violations of IOC rules. Wrestler Abdulrashid Sadulaev lost his qualifying status due to alleged support for the war, prompting scrutiny of other wrestlers.
While some Russian sports federations protest by skipping qualifiers, Russia faces a ban in Olympic track and field. World Athletics maintains its prohibition on Russian and Belarusian athletes at its events.
As decisions are deliberated in Moscow, uncertainty surrounds the extent of Russian participation in various Olympic sports. The evolving situation underscores the complex interplay between geopolitics and sportsmanship on the road to the Paris Olympics.
For more Olympic updates, visit AP Olympics.
