“The decision to allow gymnasts to compete can be revoked at any time” – Zhurova

Olympic champion in speed skating, deputy of the State Duma Svetlana Zhurova admits that the decision of the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes in neutral status in international competitions from 2024 can be reversed at any time.

On Wednesday, after the meeting, the FIG Executive Committee decided to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to participate in international competitions in a neutral status from January 1, 2024.

– I think it is a reaction to the fact that the decision of the IOC [по участию россиян в Олимпиаде] delayed until September. Believe me, they still consult. The IOC, on the other hand, cannot guarantee that the special operation will end, that documents will be signed and peace agreements concluded with Ukraine. If now we make a decision not to admit, then it will be extremely difficult to say later: “And now we allow you.” After all, we respect each other too, and going back and forth is too much.

It is easier to reverse such a decision as it is now. And it can happen at any time. But revoking a ban is more difficult than a decision to authorize. I think they rather postpone the decision or allow the athletes, and when the critical point comes, they say that they cannot admit them or ask them to sign documents, as was the case in other cases. I think they are polite and try to be neutral, but at the same time they give the opportunity to pass the selection. The date of January 1, 2024 suggests that our gymnasts, by hypothesis, can qualify for the Paris Olympics. At the same time, perhaps at that time the flag and the anthem will be allowed – everything is possible, – Zhurova told Gazeta.Ru.

The FIG statement notes that despite the return of Russian and Belarusian gymnasts to competitions, the decision on their admission to the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris will be taken by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Journal.ru