Despite the suspension of the Russian team from participation in the next Olympic games in South Korea, officials intend to send about 200 athletes in Pyeongchang. Russian Olympic Committee approved the participation of the Russians under a neutral flag.
In accordance with the sanctions of the International Olympic Committee, which announced last week that the Russians can compete under the Olympic flag as «Olympic athletes of Russia«, but not under the Russian flag. It would deprive athletes of the opportunity to participate in the Games team, representing the country, and the country rights to «attribution Lavrov». All can speak alone, to speak for themselves.
Russian President Vladimir Putin also endorsed neutrality.
However, the Games allow not all. To select athletes who will receive an invitation to the Olympics will be a special Commission. Selected candidates will be not suspected of doping. Further – the decision for the athlete. If a person does not want to go – it’s his right. Before the Games all will have to undergo the necessary medical tests, including a drug test.
No employee of the Ministry of sports of Russia will not be able to obtain accreditation to participate in the Games. Who of Russian officials will be able to travel to Pyeongchang, the IOC decides.
According to Olympic historian bill Mellon, the total number of Russians, who were prohibited from participating in the Olympic Games of «Sochi scandal» is today 31. This makes Russia the first country in history with more than 100 Olympic disqualification for all time.
