War reaches Olympia: Russian official threatens with tanks in Paris

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The International Olympic Committee has not yet decided whether Russia will be allowed to participate in the Paris Games in 2024. Due to the offensive war against Ukraine, Russia has so far been excluded from most sporting events.

Poland’s Sports and Tourism Minister Kamil Bortniczuk has now proposed forming a roster of refugees to compete in Paris. Russian and Belarusian athletes could find shelter there – but only those who have distanced themselves from their country’s war policy. So these athletes would still have a chance to show their skills in Paris.

«On tanks to Paris»

This proposal is not well received in Russia, the reaction from Moscow is mostly martial. “If they want to see us as a team of refugees at the Olympics, we will have to drive to Paris in tanks,” warned the head of the Russian wrestling federation, Mikhail Mamiashvili.

According to ex-wrestler and Olympic champion Mamiashvili, there is no other option. The IOC has not yet commented on the Russian’s statement.

Other sports officials from Russia, unlike the struggling boss, are cautious. “Not exactly correct,” says State Duma deputy and former Olympic speed skating champion Svetlana Shurowa about the proposal from Poland. (jsl)

Source : Blick