JAKARTA – Former world heavyweight boxing champion from Ukraine, Wladimir Klitschko, criticized the decision of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to make way for Russian and Belarusian athletes to appear at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The criticism was addressed to IOC President Thomas Bach through a video. He said the IOC should bar athletes from the two countries who do not openly support Russia's invasion of Ukraine from competing under a neutral flag.
"You are a representative of the universal values of tolerance and peace. I tell you, Russia is an Olympic champion in terms of crimes against civilians", Klitschko said.
The criticism comes after the IOC offered a path for Russia and Belarus to participate in the Olympics last week. However, on condition that tickets are only given out to those who don't openly support the invasion.
They will then compete under protocol as neutral athletes without a flag and anthem. It was this offer that sparked widespread criticism.
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Klitschko said Thomas's decision clearly crossed the noble values and spirit of the Olympics. According to him, allowing Russian and allied athletes to the Olympics is tantamount to donating to war.
"They (Russia and Belarus) have gold medals for the deportation of children and the rape of women. You cannot put your Olympic emblem on these crimes", he said.
"Because you will become an accomplice of this heinous war. Don't do this. Otherwise, you will betray the Olympic spirit. The world is watching you, history will judge you. Good luck with your decision", he added.
In addition, criticism was also expressed by the aide to the president of Ukraine, Mykhaylo Podolyak. He called the IOC "promoters of war, killing and destruction" by the decisions they made.
However, the IOC responded and denied the allegations. They categorically reject this and other defamatory statements.
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