The Prime Minister of Czechia, Petr Fiala, has stated that Russian and Belarusian athletes should not be allowed to participate in the 2024 Paris Olympics. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced that it is considering allowing Russian and Belarusian athletes to participate as neutrals, which has received criticism from Czechia, Poland, Ukraine, and the Baltic states.

Fiala acknowledged the autonomy of the sports sector, but stated his opposition to the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes. The Czech Olympic Committee also expressed its support for maintaining the current sanctions that would prevent these athletes from competing.

The committee stated that it would not boycott the Games, but would respect the will of each athlete if they choose not to participate. The issue is expected to be discussed during an online meeting of European sports ministers on February 10.

Article by Prague Forum