State Duma deputy Dmitry Svishchev stated that European countries are exerting pressure on the International Olympic Committee over the reinstatement of Russian athletes and sports federations to international competitions, TASS reported. Svishchev, who serves as first deputy chairman of the State Duma committee on physical culture and sports, said the committee must stand firm and withstand this European pressure.
He said European neighbors dislike that Russian athletes are being admitted back into competitions, removing politization from sports, and stated that this angers them. Svishchev noted that when Russian athletes participate in international competitions, no problems arise regarding safety or anything else.
Financial Influence and Olympic Recommendations
In his view, European countries are attempting to influence the International Olympic Committee, including financially. The deputy emphasized that Russia supports the principle that sport is outside politics, and he called on all countries to implement the decisions of the International Olympic Committee and international federations.
On July 7, the International Olympic Committee cancelled its recommendations for international federations and organizers of international sports events regarding restrictions on the participation of Russians. The Russian Olympic Committee was also temporarily restored in its rights.
