The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced on Saturday that 25 athletes from Russia and Belarus—14 and 11 respectively—will compete as Individual Neutral Athletes at the Paris 2024 Games. 🏅 The decision follows months of debate over their eligibility amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Athletes will participate without national flags or anthems, adhering to strict neutrality rules. IOC officials emphasized the move prioritizes 'athletes’ rights over politics.' 🌍 But not everyone’s cheering: The Russian Foreign Ministry slammed the decision as 'wrongful, unjust, and unacceptable,' accusing the IOC of 'discrimination.'
This marks the first official list of approved neutrals, with more names expected ahead of the July 26 opening ceremony. Will this compromise ease tensions—or fuel more controversy? 🤔 Stay tuned.
