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IOC Urges Against Participation in Russia-Organized Friendship Games
In a recent development, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has strongly advised against the involvement of sports and political leaders in the upcoming Friendship Games, a sporting event organized by Russia. This event, slated to take place shortly after the conclusion of the Summer Games in Paris, has been criticized by the IOC as a blatant attempt to inject politics into the realm of sports.
The IOC, during a meeting of its executive board headed by President Thomas Bach, issued a statement denouncing the diplomatic efforts to promote this inaugural event, labeling it as “a cynical attempt” by Russia to politicize international sports. The IOC urged all stakeholders within the Olympic movement and governments worldwide to refrain from participating in or supporting any initiatives that aim to politicize sports on a global scale.
Notably, Russian President Vladimir Putin had previously announced plans to organize both summer and winter sporting events under the banner of the Friendship Games, allocating substantial funds for prize money. This move is seen as a response to Russia’s increasing isolation in the realm of international sports following the military incursion into Ukraine in February 2022.
During a discussion at the United Nations several months ago, Russian diplomat Maria Zabolotskaya extended an invitation to the world to participate in the Friendship Games, citing Russia’s commitment to fostering “honest and fair competitions.” The inaugural edition of the games is scheduled to be held in Moscow and Yekaterinburg in September, with reports indicating a prize fund totaling 4.6 billion rubles (US$50 million).
Given Russia’s current exclusion from team sports at the Olympics, and the stringent vetting process imposed on individual athletes seeking neutral status, the Friendship Games have emerged as an alternative platform for Russian athletes facing challenges in their careers due to geopolitical tensions.
While specific details regarding the participation of other countries in the Friendship Games remain unclear, the IOC has cautioned against the potential exploitation of athletes for political purposes. Athletes, particularly those from countries outside Russia, are advised against being coerced into participating in the event as part of a propaganda campaign.
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