Svishchev on World Aquatics decision: “Tolerance without flags, anthems and symbols is illegal, but a small step forward has been taken”

Chairman of the State Duma Committee for Physical Culture and Sports Dmitry Svishchev told that the decision by the International Swimming Federation (World Aquatics) to allow Russian athletes to start with certain criteria is a small victory.

Previously, World Aquatics approved criteria that will allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete with neutral status. Among the criteria are the lack of active support for the NWO, as well as the absence of national flags and anthems. Individual neutral athletes will only be permitted to compete in events where the time or outcome is determined by an athlete’s performance.

— Should our athletes accept the terms of World Aquatics?

– This is a question for the All-Russian Swimming Federation, but the ice has broken, ladies and gentlemen of the jury. Our athletes will continue to be allowed, many federations have already announced this. Yes, entry without a flag, anthem and symbols is illegal. But my opinion is that we need to think about how our athletes continue to be authorized, without ceasing to put aside the interests of the country.

I would like to congratulate the All-Russian Swimming Federation and the Ministry of Sports, this decision includes the serious work of our officials in the sports field. As president of the federation, I know how difficult negotiations are when there are many politicized federations on the other side, defending their political interests with foam at the mouth. A small step has been taken, you certainly do not need to refuse it, only to develop your victory, ”Svishchev told .