IOC has put forward treacherous conditions for admitting Russians to international competitions, says WFV general secretary

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has proposed treacherous conditions for the admission of Russian athletes to international competitions, this is a provocation, the secretary general of the All-Russian Volleyball Federation (VVF) has told Alexander Yaremenko .

In March 2023, the IOC Executive Committee recommended that international federations, if Russians are allowed to start, do so individually, in a neutral status, without participating in team events, and also exclude the participation of athletes associated with the forces. order and expressing support for the SVO.

– Everyone knows the latest recommendations of the IOC on the admission of Russians. Are there any comments from the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB)? Will they bring us back next season?

— It is difficult for me to say something for the FIVB. In my opinion, the IOC has made a provocative statement.

– Are you saying that team sports will not be allowed in the next Olympic Games?

— Yes, including team sports. It is difficult to imagine a team that a country sends to competitions that in its entirety condemns the IOC – that is, corresponds to the treacherous conditions of the IOC. In individual sports, it is easier to find individuals who can succumb to this provocation. That’s why the IOC excluded team sports, in my opinion.

As for the FIVB, in the current situation, it is difficult to find positive sides even for the FIVB if it decides to admit Russian teams. This will bring a large number of difficulties, and it is difficult to determine the positive aspects. Therefore, although there is no fundamental change in the position of the IOC, I think it is easier for the FIVB to remain in the general ranks of the international federations.

– So the only hope for the Olympics is for the IOC to change its position on team sports?

– I wouldn’t talk about hopes now, but just follow the situation. Our task is to monitor the situation and be ready for any decision. For this, we are now gathering national teams, and we are also trying to make the level of Russian competitions match the level of international competitions,” Yaremenko told .