The International Olympic Committee announced it will not change its stance on the participation of Russian athletes in international competitions. According to Reuters, the IOC stated it will maintain its position despite a demand by nine European Union countries to cut funding to organizations that allow Russian athletes.
This statement came after the IOC Executive Board temporarily reinstated the Russian Olympic Committee's status on July 7 and lifted its recommendations to restrict Russian athletes' participation. Following that decision, Estonia and eight partner countries appealed to European Union Sports Commissioner Glenn Micallef, demanding a halt to funding for organizations that accept Russian athletes.
In its statement, the IOC emphasized that it must take into account the complex realities and consequences of the current geopolitical situation. The Committee said, 'The IOC must remain committed to its mission of maintaining a values-based and truly global sports platform; this platform gives hope to the world.'