The Paris 2024 Olympic Games may have an unusual quirk: the official medal table might not tell the full story. Due to ongoing geopolitical tensions, athletes from Russia and Belarus will be competing under the banner of “Individual Neutral Athletes” (AIN), meaning their victories won’t count towards any national tally.
Neutral Athletes Amid Conflict
Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, supported by Belarus, both countries were banned from sending teams to the Olympics. However, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has made allowances for individual athletes who meet specific criteria. These athletes must not have shown support for the war or have any military affiliations. Russia, traditionally a dominant force in the Olympics, will send a drastically reduced contingent compared to previous years. Only 15 Russian athletes and 17 Belarusians have accepted the invitation to participate, a stark contrast to the 335 Russian athletes who competed in Tokyo 2020 under the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) banner.
Competing as AINs
Athletes from Russia and Belarus who meet the IOC’s strict conditions will compete as Individual Neutral Athletes (AINs) in Paris. This marks the fourth consecutive Olympics where Russians compete under a different designation, following ROC and OAR (Olympic Athletes from Russia) in past Games. As AINs, they won’t appear in the medal tables as a group. Instead, their medals will be awarded to them personally, without contributing to their countries’ tallies. The IOC will use a neutral teal and white flag for any medal ceremonies involving these athletes, and a special anthem will be played if they win gold.
Criteria for Participation
The eligibility conditions for Russian and Belarusian athletes are rigorous. Besides not supporting the war, athletes must not have contracts with military or security agencies. They also must qualify for the Games and pass a double vetting process by their international sports federations and the IOC’s Individual Neutral Athlete Eligibility Review Panel (AINERP).
Impact on Sports Dynamics
With such a limited number of Russian athletes, the dynamics of several Olympic events could change dramatically. Russia has long dominated sports like artistic swimming and rhythmic gymnastics, but their reduced presence may open doors for other nations to shine.
Notable Competitors
Among those competing are tennis star Daniil Medvedev and six other tennis players. The Russian team also includes trampoline gymnasts, canoeists, road cyclists, and a swimmer. The Russian weightlifting and judo federations have declined their invitations, citing concerns over the conditions imposed.
International Reactions
The decision to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete as neutrals has been met with mixed reactions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized the decision, saying it signals that “terror is somehow acceptable.” Ukraine has advised its athletes to avoid contact with their Russian and Belarusian counterparts in Paris. Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo and other political figures have expressed opposition to their participation. However, the UK government has supported the IOC’s decision, emphasizing the importance of maintaining individual athlete rights.
Conclusion
The inclusion of Russian and Belarusian athletes as AINs in Paris 2024 reflects the complex interplay between sports and global politics. While the medal table might not reflect their achievements, the athletes’ presence will undoubtedly be a topic of significant discussion throughout the Games. The IOC’s decision balances geopolitical considerations with the rights of athletes to compete, albeit under strict conditions that underscore the ongoing tensions affecting international sport.
Credit: BBC Sport
