KAZAN, Oct 1, Vadim Kuznetsov. Russian Sports Minister Oleg Matytsin told reporters that the statement of the head of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Thomas Bach about the possibility of the return of Russian athletes to international competitions is contrary to Olympic principles. Earlier, Bach, in an interview with the Italian edition of Corriere della Sera, said that Russian athletes who do not support the special operation in Ukraine should be allowed to participate in international competitions in a neutral status. “We do not yet see a constructive solution from the IOC. From my point of view, the last statement is contrary to the Olympic principles – to ensure equal rights for athletes of any nationality and belonging to any state. The main task of the international Olympic movement, regardless of the views, of religion and citizenship to provide equal access.We will continue the dialogue.Nade We hope that the position will change and our athletes will take part in the Olympic Games and international competitions. I think it will be good not only for Russia, but also for international sports. Representatives of international federations noted that sports would not develop without Russia. This will lead to a further crisis,” Matytsin said. At the end of February, the IOC recommended that sports federations not allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete because of the situation in Ukraine. Most international federations followed this recommendation.
