Russian athletes in Paris Olympics

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) faces criticism for allowing Russian and Belarusian athletes with alleged ties to pro-war activities to compete in the Paris Olympics, amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions due to the war in Ukraine. A dossier revealed that 17 athletes had shown support for the invasion, raising questions about maintaining Olympic values. Meanwhile, Russian officials condemned the French Olympic Committee's decision to ban hijab-wearing athlete Sounkamba Sylla from the opening ceremony, labeling it as discrimination and a departure from the Olympic spirit. The IOC has barred Russia and Belarus from full participation, allowing only a limited number of athletes to compete as Individual Neutral Athletes (AINs) under strict conditions. This situation has resulted in a significant reduction in the number of eligible Russian competitors compared to previous Games, as many were excluded for showing support for the military or the invasion. Critics claim that both the treatment of Russian athletes and the ban on Sylla undermine the fundamental principles of fairness and inclusivity in the Olympic movement.