International Swimming Federation ‘conditionally’ allows Russian, Belarusian athletes to compete in Paris Olympics

Swimmers from Russia and Belarus now have a chance to compete in next year’s Paris Olympics.

On Friday, the International Swimming Federation announced the criteria for Russian and Belarusian swimmers and coaches to compete in Paris.안전놀이터

First, they must wear white uniforms and equipment, with no Russian or Belarusian national anthems or flags allowed.

They will only be allowed to send one athlete per swimming and diving event, which means they will not be able to compete in relays, artistic swimming, synchronized diving, water polo, and other events that require multiple athletes.

In addition, athletes are not allowed to give media interviews and are not allowed to attend press conferences, as they are scrutinized for supportive behavior or social media posts following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February last year.

“The International Swimming Federation is the latest Olympic sporting body to respond to the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) directive to find a way for Russian and Belarusian athletes to return to competition,” the Associated Press said.

“Unlike the International Swimming Federation, the World Association of Athletics Federations has maintained a strong stance on banning Russian athletes from international competition, which will make it difficult for them to compete in Paris.”

Finally, the federation vowed to discipline athletes who engage in discriminatory behavior against Russian and Belarusian athletes.

“We have a responsibility to create a competitive and fair environment that is inclusive of all athletes,” said FINA President Hussein Al Musallam.