Bach was widely criticized for the Russia debate

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These are, to say the least, uncomfortable days for Thomas Bach (69). As the head of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) continues to defend his course in the debate over the return of Russian and Belarusian athletes, he is facing great resistance. The cadence of critical voices is constantly increasing. Last month, sports politicians from 35 countries stepped up the pressure by calling for the two countries to be excluded from the 2024 Olympics.

Now he was received unfriendly at a discussion in Essen: first by demonstrators, then by targeted questions from his opponents, which eventually made it difficult for him to explain himself. “How can you sleep with that?” asked Polish Consul General Jakub Wawrzyniak (43).

Bach announced a decision at the upcoming IOC Executive Session next week. He speaks of “incomprehensible suffering” and “inhuman crimes” in Ukraine. But he does not deviate from his position on this point either: the UN and Olympic charters would not allow discrimination against athletes on the basis of their origin. According to him, the “disintegration of the international sports system” is imminent.

Russians and Belarusians should be able to compete under a neutral flag again, provided they do not actively support the war in Ukraine and the anti-doping codes are observed. “Our role is to bring people together,” Bach said. It is not for the government to determine who participates in sports competitions. “It would mean the end of international competitions like the Olympics and other title fights.” A dead end: because countries such as Ukraine, Poland and Latvia threaten to boycott the Olympics if the Russians are allowed to enter again.

Bach resigns from the FDP

In Essen, Bach also refers to a functioning coexistence of the nations involved in the tennis circus, which irritates his critics even more. Especially since tears and a refused handshake from Ukrainian Marta Kostyuk (20) and a panic attack from Lesia Tsurenko (33) could be heard. While the Belarusian Arena Sabalenka (24) spoke of “never experienced so much hatred”.

Bach is also under attack on other fronts. FDP politicians explained that the IOC boss failed to see athletes as a central propaganda tool in Russia. Word is now circulating that Bach has left the FDP. But that has nothing to do with the row over the return of the Russians to the sport, says his spokesman. (mpe)

Source : Blick