During a surprise visit to Kyiv, World Athletics President Sebastian Coe extended a personal invitation to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to attend the Olympics as his guest. Coe emphasized the significance of athletics as the number one Olympic sport and expressed his desire for Zelensky to witness the competition in Paris.
Amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, World Athletics has taken a firm stance by banning all Russian and Belarussian athletes from elite competition. This decision contrasts with the International Olympic Committee's allowance of Russian athletes to participate as neutrals in the upcoming Paris Games.
Zelensky has been vocal about the lack of neutrality in times of war, condemning the participation of Russian athletes under a neutral flag as being tainted with blood.
Ukraine's journey to the Olympics has been fraught with challenges, including the destruction of over 500 sports facilities and the loss of numerous athletes due to Russian attacks. Despite these adversities, World Athletics has pledged continued financial support for Ukrainian athletes and proposed initiatives to assist young competitors and coaches in maintaining their international athletic careers.
During his visit, Coe attended the Ukrainian Athletics Championships in Lviv, where he commended the athletes for their resilience and determination. Reflecting on the emotional impact of his time in Kyiv, Coe shared his experience of witnessing the arrival of civilian casualties on a medical train from the front line.
While uncertain if Zelensky will be able to attend the Olympics due to scheduling conflicts, Coe noted that the Ukrainian president appeared receptive to the invitation as their conversation progressed.
