MINSK, Sep 17, Alexander Govorov. Vice President of the Russian Biathlon Union ( SBR) Aleksey Nuzhdov told reporters that he was counting on the great support of Russia from other countries at the Congress of the International Biathlon Union (IBU). The IBU Congress on Friday decided to uphold the suspension of Russian and Belarusian athletes from international competitions until further notice. 39 national federations voted for this decision, two voted against, five more abstained. «There were no illusions. Everyone who is interested in biathlon did not expect sensations. Everything was expected. It was curious to see how the votes would be, who would vote for us. I I hoped that more would be for us and abstain. I wish there was more support. The fact that now we can be admitted at any time by a new decision of the IBU Congress does not matter. This decision is not independent on their part. It is ridiculous to read that «Sport is out of politics. It already sounds like a meme. I don't think anyone has any illusions about this. We need to focus on Russian competitions. We are responsible for our work within the country. I don't think biathletes will scatter. Good funds are allocated and created conditions for their training and support,» Nuzhdov said. Earlier, the IBU suspended Russian and Belarusian athletes from competitions under its auspices and suspended the membership of the RBU and the Belarusian Biathlon Federation against the backdrop of the situation in Ukraine. These decisions were made in accordance with the recommendation of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
