The IOC has reinforced that no international sports events should take place in Russia or Belarus, nor should flags, anthems, colours or other forms of identification of those countries be displayed at sports events. No Government or state officials from those countries should be invited or accredited at international sports events.
In its statement, the IOC further restated its commitment to Ukrainian athletes and the Ukrainian Olympic movement, encouraging all International Federations, National Olympic Committees and event organisers to do everything possible to assist Ukrainian athletes to compete globally.
AOC President Ian Chesterman says the AOC supports this position, as well as the important role the Olympic movement can play as a unifying force in the world.
“We are very clear that athletes from Russia or Belarus would have to compete as neutral athletes with no flags, colours or anthems at any qualifying events or at Paris 2024. Further, the Olympic charter must be respected by these athletes which means they cannot have supported Russia’s illegal war against the people of Ukraine.
“The AOC participated in the IOC’s recent consultation process with National Olympic Committees, International Federations and other stakeholders. Prior to that, this matter was discussed at length with the AOC Executive which includes the Chair and Deputy Chair of the AOC Athletes’ Commission.
“We are equally conscious there must be full compliance with the World Anti-doping Code. Our athletes must be confident that they are competing in a clean environment.
“This remains an extremely complex issue to negotiate. The sanctions must remain and our support for Ukraine is unwavering. Equally, the role of the Olympic movement has always been to promote the role of sport to bring the world together and not to punish the athlete for the actions of governments,” Mr Chesterman concluded.