IOC commented on the possibility of Russian participation in the 2026 Olympics

According to glavcom.ua: The International Olympic Committee (IOC) stated that the decision regarding the participation of Russian athletes in the Olympics in Milan will depend on various external circumstances. This was reported by 'Glavkom'.

IOC head stated there is no deadline for a decision on Russia

Kirsty Coventry became the head of the International Olympic Committee in June this year, replacing Thomas Bach, who led the organization since 2013. She previously stated that the IOC does not have a specific deadline for making a final decision regarding Russia's participation in the Olympics in Milan.

“We will certainly take into account external factors regarding what is happening. A final decision may be made by the end of the year, but specific timelines cannot be given for a number of reasons,” the IOC said in response to inquiries from Russian propagandists.

Russian athletes denied participation due to aggression against Ukraine

In March 2022, the IOC called for the exclusion of Russian athletes from international tournaments due to Russia's aggression against Ukraine. In 2023, the IOC decided to recommend allowing Russians to compete under a neutral status. The Olympics in Milan will take place from February 6 to 22, 2023, in Italy.

The athlete liked posts about Putin

The sixth-ranked Russian player MIRA ANDREEVA was recognized for liking posts about the activities of the pro-Putin organization 'People's Front,' which supports the occupiers. Her regular partner from various tournaments, Anton Endjeevsky, is also involved with this organization, which is under sanctions from the EU, Canada, Switzerland, and Ukraine.

Additionally, MIRA ANDREEVA and her sister Erika Andreeva (who is ranked 102nd in the WTA rankings) were seen on social media with Anton Endjeevsky and Nikolai Olyunin. In 2024, Nikolai Olyunin became a trusted person of dictator Vladimir Putin in the so-called presidential 'elections' in Russia.

The Olympic Committee is considering the possibility of Russian athletes participating in the upcoming Olympics in Milan depending on various factors, without setting specific deadlines for making a decision. In the past, the IOC has already taken measures against Russian athletes due to aggression against Ukraine and continues to be cautious in relations with Russian athletes.