World Aquatics (WA) is sticking to its tough standards for Russian and Belarusian swimmers to return to international competition, even if it means some of the world’s best from both nations boycotting the Paris Olympics.
Swimming’s worldwide governing body accepted the reinstatement of Russian and Belarussian players last September, after they were barred following Russia’s February 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
They may only compete as neutrals, are barred from relay events, and must adhere to severe standards, including no “explicit or implicit” statements of support for the conflict in Ukraine, which Russia refers to as a “special military operation”.
They are also subject to severe anti-doping rules and are prohibited from speaking to the media during competitions.
Russia’s swimming federation condemned the protocols as unacceptable and discriminatory, and no Russian swimmer entered the World Championships currently being held in Doha.
“As I sit here right now, I’m standing by the policy 100%” WA Executive Director Brent Nowicki told Reuters.
“I don’t think it’s too restrictive. I think it’s a policy that reflects the voice of our community, and whether or not they want to do it is up to them.”
A number of top Russian swimmers would have had strong medal claims if they competed at Doha, including men’s 50 metres backstroke world record holder Kliment Kolesnikov and Evgeniia Chikunova, the women’s 200m breaststroke world record holder.
Four Belarusian swimmers have competed as neutrals in Doha, but the absence of Russia’s leading athletes has further weakened a competition which was already shunned by a number of the world’s top swimmers due to its unusual February schedule and proximity to the Olympics in Paris.
The International Olympic Committee in December endorsed Russian and Belarusian athletes competing as neutrals at Paris.
