“We must defend our autonomy at all costs. This does not mean that we are apolitical, that we behave as if we live on an island of saints, that we do not recognize the political impact of our actions. They must have political influence. Because otherwise we wouldn’t be relevant,” Bach said.
On December 8, it became known that the IOC allowed Russians and Belarusians to participate in the Olympics in a neutral status. Those who have qualified in their sports will qualify for the Games. Athletes should not support the SVO or be associated with military departments.
Earlier, the President of the All-Russian Rhythmic Gymnastics Federation, Irina Viner, said that ordinary people will not forgive athletes who go to the Olympics in a neutral status.