Bach said that the IOC offers the Russians a neutral status, taking into account the rules
The head of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Thomas Bach, responded to accusations of double standards due to the introduction of neutral status for Russian athletes. His words are quoted by TASS.
The functionary said that it is not easy for the organization to come to a balance in the current situation, but the IOC is trying to find a way out, while observing the same rules for all athletes. “Given respect for the rules, we are moving to the status of neutral athletes,” he added.
Bach emphasized that if international competitions were only held between countries whose states thought alike, then international competitions could no longer serve a unifying function. He added that the IOC’s mission at the moment is to protect athletes.
In March, the IOC recommended allowing Belarusians and Russians who did not support the special military operation in Ukraine to compete in neutral status. At the same time, athletes associated with the armed forces or security agencies of their countries are recommended to be excluded from participation in tournaments.
Source: Lenta
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