Triple Olympic synchronized swimming champion Alla Shishkina in a conversation with , she cited the recent call from the International Olympic Committee (CIO ) not participating in the Friendship Games in Russia is an aggressive measure.
On March 19, the IOC called on athletes and governments to refuse to participate in the Friendship Games in Russia.
— Can the Friendship Games replace the Olympic Games for our athletes?
— I don’t know, there hasn’t been such a competition format yet. We will have to see how they evolve. Russia has extensive experience in hosting events of the highest level. I think everything should go very well.
I think the IOC is behaving in a very hostile manner towards our country, our athletes. Sport must bring people together, instill friendship and unity. And ultimately, a call to boycott the Friendship Games. A very aggressive approach on the part of the IOC.
— Where can athletes look for motivation?
— I think it’s in the love of my sport, in the love of my country. Among these fans who encourage them in all competitions. Personally, I have always felt very supported by people: both on social networks and in the street. “I think it’s a good motivation,” Shishkina told .
The first-ever “Friendship Games” will take place from September 15 to 29, 2024 in Moscow and Yekaterinburg.
Source : MatchTV
I’m John White and I’m an experienced journalist working in the news industry. My specialty is covering sports news, which I’ve been doing for over 6 years now. During this time, I have worked as an author with Athletistic, a popular online news website focusing on sports topics.
