ICF chief: ‘Russians are denied participation in competitions due to security concerns’

Athletistic/Other. International Canoe Federation (ICF) President Thomas Konecko said the organization will not introduce a mandatory rule for the admission of Russian athletes to the competition, as not all organizers are able to ensure the safety of athletes.

“The ICF board has decided to allow Russian athletes to return as neutral players under certain conditions. However, we have included a condition that organizers may refuse to participate if they cannot ensure the safety of the athletes and the smooth running of the competition.

We strive to maintain the integrity of our competitions. Some organizers have decided to take advantage of this and refuse neutral athletes because they cannot ensure safety, and we must respect their decision.

It is part of our decision, but it is possible that at the World Rowing Championships in Thailand, Russian athletes will be allowed as neutral athletes and will have to qualify.

The final decision is entirely up to the organisers, given their financial pressure. Introducing additional security measures requires additional funds and many organizers have a limited budget. Our task is not to interfere in their decision whether or not to allow Russian athletes, it is entirely at their discretion.

If the government of a country decides to prohibit the participation of athletes in competitions, this decision will be made independently of the Federation. We disagree with this and may be forced to consider canceling the competition. As long as the organizers can justify their inability to ensure the safety of the athletes and the running of the competition, it must be admitted. The same was true for Germany and Italy.

We understand it’s a tough decision, but sport is part of a democratic system. We are obligated to consider the opinion of the majority and act in accordance with it,” the ICF chief reportedly said inside the Games.

Konetsko also noted that Russian athletes will be allowed to compete according to International Olympic Committee (IOC) criteria.

Recall that Russian athletes could not participate in the World Championships in Germany and the Junior World Championships in Italy due to the inability to provide security.