Irina Viner called the IOC’s call to refuse participation in the Friendship Games expected
President of the All-Russian Rhythmic Gymnastics Federation Irina Viner appreciated the call of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to the National Olympic Committees (NOCs) to refuse participation in the Friendship Games. Her words are quoted by TASS.
Wiener called the IOC’s move expected. “It was clear to me from the very beginning that the IOC would adhere to such a policy in relation to our competitions, where athletes would simply come to perform and receive decent prize money, and not to organize some kind of political demonstration,” she said.
Earlier on November 15, it became known that the IOC recommended that National Olympic Committees (NOCs) ignore the Friendship Games in Russia. According to NOC Relations Director James McLeod, participation in these competitions is contrary to the sanctions imposed on Russian sports introduced in February 2022.
On October 19, the tournament was decided to be held by Russian President Vladimir Putin. It was noted that this decision was made in order to ensure guaranteed free access for Russian athletes and sports organizations to international sports activities. The tournament is expected to be held in Moscow and Yekaterinburg from September 15 to 29, 2024.
Source: Lenta
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