The International Luge Federation deprived three Russian lugers of their status as neutral participants
Obtained information indicates that the International Luge Federation (FIL) has decided to strip three Russian lugers of their status as neutral participants.
In October, the Sports Arbitration Court (CAS) lifted the ban on Russian athletes who meet the 'neutrality' requirements participating in FIL competitions. The first six Russians were granted neutral participant status, but now this status has been revoked for three of them.
Based on evidence of support for military actions and violations of neutrality, FIL decided to revoke the neutral status of athletes Gorbacevich, Mazur, and Shamova.
As a result, these athletes were deprived of the opportunity to qualify for the Olympics. Remember that the Olympic Games will take place in 2026 in Italy.
Propaganda activities and the participation of athletes in them
During these events, Russian skater Aleksandra Sajatina, who was recognized as a neutral athlete by the International Skating Union (ISU), participated in propaganda actions. During Putin's annual address to the Federal Assembly, she appeared alongside his supporters and military personnel.
Russian skier Veronika Stepanova posted a photo on Instagram confirming Sajatina's participation in propaganda events, which also involved Russian military personnel who participated in the conflict in eastern Ukraine.
As a result, the International Luge Federation decided to strip three Russian lugers of their status as neutral participants, due to evidence of their involvement in the conflict and violations of neutrality. This internal decision may prohibit them from participating in future Olympic Games.