Russia’s Sports Minister Oleg Matytsin has urged against boycotting the upcoming Paris Olympics despite the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) restrictions on Russian athletes. The IOC suspended Russia from the 2024 Games due to the Kremlin’s offensive in Ukraine, but allowed Russian athletes to compete as neutrals if they do not support the war.
Matytsin emphasized the importance of maintaining dialogue and participation in competitions. He acknowledged that the IOC’s stance is unlikely to soften, but stressed the need for Russian athletes to have the opportunity to compete. He noted that different international federations have varying approaches to Russian participation, with some banning it outright and others allowing it under neutral status.
Despite the ban, Matytsin believes the Olympics remain crucial for Russia. He stated that it is essential to provide athletes with a platform to showcase their abilities and demonstrate the country’s sporting prowess. He added that the decision of whether or not to participate should be left to individual athletes, as each federation has its own regulations.
Russia has previously condemned the IOC’s restrictions as discriminatory and humiliating. However, it has not yet issued a formal recommendation to its athletes regarding participation in Paris. President Vladimir Putin has also refrained from providing guidance, stating that the conditions need to be carefully analyzed.
The IOC’s restrictions include a ban on Russian and Belarusian flags and anthems, as well as a prohibition on government officials attending the Games. Athletes from these countries must also not actively support the war or be affiliated with military or security agencies.
Russia’s participation in the Olympic movement has been limited in recent years due to state-sponsored doping scandals. The country was banned from the 2018 Winter Olympics and had its participation in the 2020 Summer Olympics restricted.
