Because of her, an international scandal broke out involving Olga Harlan
Verkhovna Rada Committee on youth and sports issues called for lifelong disqualification of the Russian fencer Anna Smirnova.
The draft resolution proposes that the International Fencing Federation completely cancel the disqualification for Ukrainian Olga Kharlan, bring all those involved in the disqualification of Harlan to justice, and also disqualify Smirnova for life for a provocation that is contrary to the Olympic spirit.
On July 27, Ukrainian fencer Olga Kharlan was disqualified from the 2023 World Championships after defeating Russian Anna Smirnova, who competes under a neutral flag (15:7). After the meeting, the Ukrainian refused to shake hands with Smirnova.
The Fencing Federation of Ukraine appealed to the International Fencing Federation (FIE) with a demand to deprive the Russian woman of neutral status and remove her from participation in competitions under the auspices of the FIE. Smirnova posted a photo on social networks with her brother, a soldier of the Russian army, and demonstrated support for Russian troops.
The International Olympic Committee called on the international federations to be sensitive in situations with Ukrainian and “neutral” athletes. The FIE Executive Committee recognized the actions of the Ukrainian woman in good faith and allowed her to compete in team competitions at the 2023 World Cup in Milan.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) personally invited Olga to participate in OI-24 as an exception, because due to her current disqualification, she will not receive points that would allow her to win an Olympic license through sports.
Source: Sportarena
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