Paris Mayor Opposes Russian Athletes’ Participation in Paris 2024 Olympics and Opening Ceremony
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo voiced her opposition to the participation of Russian athletes in the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games and their attendance at the Opening Ceremony, which is scheduled for July 26. In an interview with Reuters on Wednesday, Hidalgo stated that she would prefer Russian athletes not to attend the event due to President Vladimir Putin’s dictatorial actions and his ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
Russian Athletes as Neutral Participants
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) decided in December that Russian and Belarusian individual athletes who have qualified for the Paris 2024 Olympics will be permitted to compete under the neutral flag, provided they meet eligibility requirements. However, the IOC has not yet announced whether these athletes will be allowed to participate in the Opening Ceremony under this flag.
Paralympic Movement’s Decision
The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) previously announced that Russian and Belarusian Paralympic athletes would not be involved in their Opening Ceremony, which is scheduled for August 28.
Israeli Athletes and Sanctions
When questioned about imposing similar restrictions on Israeli athletes, Hidalgo expressed her opposition to sanctioning Israel. Instead, she emphasized the importance of diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a ceasefire and preventing civilian targeting in Gaza.
Russian Response
According to the Russian state news agency TASS, Russian sports minister Oleg Matytsin stated that Russia should not boycott the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. He emphasized the need for dialogue and maintaining the opportunity to compete while giving the IOC time to express its stance on the participation of athletes from Russia and Belarus in the Games.
Important Dates for Paris 2024 Olympics
The Paris Summer Olympics officially begin on July 26 and conclude on August 11, while the Paralympic Games will take place from August 28 to September 8.