Zakharova responded to WADA by saying that Russia will hold the Friendship Games at a high level
The official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry Maria Zakharova in her Telegram channel responded to the Director General of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Olivier Niggli, who stated that Russia does not have the right to organize the Friendship Games.
“I recommend Niggli to look into the issue of compliance with doping standards of transgender people pumped up with hormones included in competitions,” Zakharova said. She considered that Russia would hold the Friendship Games at a high level in accordance with existing international standards.
Earlier on November 17, Niggli said that Russia does not have the right to organize the Friendship Games due to the lack of compliance status with the Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA). Niggli opposed the competition and believed that it was necessary to draw attention to this event from an anti-doping point of view.
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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