Olympic Games: Athletes will be able to express their opinions, except during the events

The International Olympic Committee announced in a statement on Friday that it had allowed athletes participating in the Tokyo Olympics to express their political views, until the start of their events.

In an updated guide for athletes, the IOC has modified a point of regulation concerning their right of expression.

He said they will now be able to express themselves on political or societal issues when speaking to the media, during team meetings, on social networks and even just before the start of their events.

"It was the wish of a large majority of athletes"

This overhaul of Article 50 of the Olympic Charter, which until then banned any "demonstration or political propaganda" was expected as it seemed to many unsuitable, at a time of the support shown by many athletes for movements like "Black Lives Matter "which symbolizes the fight against racism. Many sportsmen, basketball players, footballers have got into the habit of putting their knees on the ground and raising their fists before the kick-off of their match in a gesture that has become symbolic. They can also wear outfits (T-shirts ...) displaying opinions.

“This new guide is the result of extensive consultation with athletes,” said Kirsty Coventry, IOC Athletes' Commission Chairperson.

"The manual offers the possibility for athletes to express themselves before the competitions but it also preserves the competition, the official ceremonies and the Olympic Village. And this was the wish of a large majority of athletes during our consultation", the former Zimbabwean swimmer added.

Athletes will not be able to demonstrate during their events, nor on the podiums, nor during the anthems, nor during the opening and closing ceremonies or in the Olympic Village.

The IOC reminds that athletes must however respect the principles of Olympism, must not "target people in particular, countries, organizations and touch people with their dignity" under penalty of sanction.