Israel-targeted demonstrations during the Olympic torch relay?
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is set to discuss the participation of Russian athletes in the 2026 Winter Olympics, which will take place in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo from February 6-22. This shift in focus comes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly the ongoing aggression against Ukraine.
Christophe Dubi, the IOC Executive Director, spoke about the matter at a press conference in Milan. He confirmed that the Olympic Committee of Israel is 'fully in line with the Olympic Charter,' but the focus of the upcoming IOC session is on the participation of Russian athletes.
The discussion about Russian athletes' participation will be conducted by a commission consisting of three members: Nicole Hoevertsz, IOC member and chair of the commission, Pau Gasol, IOC representative for ethics, and one other member. The anticipated decision is for a similar neutral entry as was the case at the 2024 Paris Summer Games, where Russian athletes were only allowed to compete as neutral individual entrants.
The IOC is planning the torch relay through Italy for the 2026 Winter Olympics. The Olympic flame will embark on a tour through the host country after arriving in Rome on December 4. Dubi expressed full trust in the work of the Italian authorities regarding the torch relay. The IOC session in Milan on Thursday and Friday will not discuss consequences against Israeli athletes.
Meanwhile, the Vuelta a España cycling race witnessed massive pro-Palestinian protests sparked by the presence of an Israeli professional team. The 2022 cycling event, held in Spain, saw demonstrations calling for the boycott of Israeli teams, highlighting the continued sensitivity surrounding the Israeli participation in international sports events.
Despite the challenges, Dubi mentioned that there is always a risk involved in any event, regardless of location and time. He reiterated the IOC's commitment to upholding the principles of the Olympic Charter and ensuring a peaceful and inclusive environment for all athletes and spectators.
As the countdown to the 2026 Winter Olympics continues, the IOC and the host cities Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo are working diligently to prepare for a successful and memorable event. The Olympic flame, set to be lit on November 26 in ancient Olympia, Greece, will soon embark on its journey across Italy, marking the start of the countdown to the Winter Games.
Read also:
- United States tariffs pose a threat to India, necessitating the recruitment of adept negotiators or strategists, similar to those who had influenced Trump's decisions.
- Weekly happenings in the German Federal Parliament (Bundestag)
- Southwest region's most popular posts, accompanied by an inquiry:
- Discussion between Putin and Trump in Alaska could potentially overshadow Ukraine's concerns
