Ukrainian delegation criticises return of Russian athletes at Youth Olympics
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Senego
The Ukrainian delegation at the Dakar Youth Olympic Games has criticised the participation of 13 Russian athletes under their national flag, authorised after the suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee was lifted. Ukrainian journalist Andrii Nikitonok says he is finding the return difficult to accept, as the Games bring together around 2,700 young athletes.
Andrii Nikitonok, a journalist with the Ukrainian delegation at the Dakar Youth Olympic Games (YOG), says he does not understand why Russian athletes have been allowed to compete under their flag while the war continues. He described the situation as “very problematic”, according to Senego.
Thirteen Russian athletes have been authorised to compete in nine disciplines following the lifting in July of the suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), on condition that they had not publicly supported the war. According to France Info, Russian flags and the national anthem were subsequently seen and heard in the stands. Before the final two days of competition, the Russian delegation had won 14 medals, including eight golds.
Nikitonok contrasted the atmosphere in Dakar with the situation of relatives who have remained in Ukraine, some of whom reportedly have electricity for only four or five hours a day. He also claims that a member of the Russian delegation gave him the middle finger and that the Ukrainian Olympic Committee asked its members not to respond to provocations.
Before the final two days, the Ukrainians had won two gold, two silver and three bronze medals. Hammer thrower Milaniia Kokhan dedicated her victory to the Ukrainian people and the military. The participation of 13 Russians competing under their flag had already been announced on 30 October, before the YOG opening on 31 October.
