• Loading stock data...
Friday, December 13, 2024

Over 30 Countries Want Russia Banned From Olympics

  • More than 30 countries have pledged their support for banning Russian and Belarusian athletes from international sporting competitions.
  • The U.S. and U.K. are among the countries that signed a statement released by the British government.
The flag of the IOC flies next to the flag of the Russian Federation at night during the closing ceremony for Sochi 2014.
Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports

The U.S. and U.K. are two of more than 30 countries that have pledged their support for banning Russian and Belarusian athletes from international sporting competitions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

A statement released by the British government and signed by the countries follows proposals from the International Olympic Committee that explore allowing Russian and Belarusian athletes to return to competitions, including the 2024 Olympics in France — which also signed the statement.

Paris 2024 organizers previously stated they would abide by the IOC’s decision on Russia’s participation, but Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo said there’d be no Russian delegation at the games as long as there’s a war.

Ukraine hasn’t ruled out a boycott of the games should Russian and Belarusian athletes be allowed. The IOC said a boycott would be in violation of the Olympic Charter.

The countries addressed the IOC’s proposal that athletes participate in competitions as “neutral athletes” not representing their country.

“There are serious concerns about how feasible it is for Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete on a neutral basis given they are directly funded and supported by their states,” the British government stated, also referencing “strong links and affiliations between Russian athletes and the Russian military.”

“We also note that Russia and Belarus have it in their own hands to pave the way for athletes’ full return to the international sports community, namely by ending the war they started,” the countries added.

Linkedin
Whatsapp
Copy Link
Link Copied
Link Copied

What to Read

NBA Cup Prize: Every Player Wants the Money, But One Would Get..

Each player on the championship team will win nearly $515,000.

Manchester City Is a Mess. It’s Still Breaking Revenue Records

As on-field losses mount, the Premier League giant reports record revenue.

Belichick Makes UNC Intentions Clear: ‘I Didn’t Come Here to Leave’

North Carolina formally introduced Bill Belichick on Thursday.

NBA Cup Schedule May Benefit Losing Teams, League Exec Defends Format

An NBA executive told FOS all stakeholders agreed on the format.

Featured Today

Nov 2, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Detailed view of a Wilson NBA basketball held by a referee during the second half between the Utah Jazz against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena

‘Obvious Weak Point’: Refs Remain an NBA Gambling Concern

A season after Jontay Porter, the biggest risk may not be players.
Nov 2, 2024; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Michigan Wolverines cheerleader runs with a flag before the game against the Oregon Ducks at Michigan Stadium.
opinion
December 7, 2024

College Football’s Billionaire Backer Era Begins

Is this the new normal in CFB recruiting?
LA Galaxy forward Dejan Joveljic (9) celebrates with midfielder Riqui Puig (10) after scoring a goal against Seattle Sounders FC in the second half in the 2024 MLS Cup Western Conference Final match at Dignity Health Sports Park
December 6, 2024

With or Without Messi, Major League Soccer Is Barreling Into the Future

After the Cup final, the league looks to accelerate its growth.
Dec 18, 2022; Lusail, Qatar; FIFA president Gianni Infantino claps during the awards ceremony after the 2022 World Cup final between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium.
December 2, 2024

FIFA Wants More Matches. Resistance Is Growing Inside the Global Soccer World

Resentment and frustration over expanded schedules is nearing a breaking point.

Premier League Transfer Spending Has Already Topped $2 Billion As Deadline Looms

Saudi Pro League teams haven’t yet matched their English counterparts.
August 11, 2024

Passing of the Torch: Los Angeles Set for Olympic Firsts in 2028

The city last hosted the Summer Olympics in 1984.
Paralympics Tiktok
August 25, 2024

The Wildly Successful Paralympics TikTok Account Isn’t What You Think

A cheeky TikTok account is opening the world of Paralympic sports.
Sponsored

How UBS Crafts Impactful Partnerships Across Sports, Arts, and Culture

As UBS continues to expand its impressive array of sports and entertainment partnerships, the company solidifies its position as a leader in wealth management.
August 1, 2024

Saudi Arabia Submits Bold World Cup Bid That Includes a Cliffside Arena

The Saudis are proposing a new stadium in a futuristic city called Neom.
John John Florence (USA) surfs in men’s round two competition during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Summer Games at Tsurigasaki Surfing Beach.
July 29, 2024

Olympic Surfers Won’t Get Their Full Paris Moment

‘We’re kind of separate off on our own little thing over here.’
Teahupo'o Tahiti Surfing
July 26, 2024

Olympic Surfing Crashes on Tahiti Like a Wave

For Teahupo‘o’s locals, the Olympics are a mixed blessing.
July 25, 2024

Olympics: Despite Concerns, Star Athletes and Paris Spark Hope

Hope rises for a resurgent event after two pandemic-marred Olympics.