Russian and Belarusian Athletes and Officials
Firstly, our thoughts and prayers are with our athletes and their families, wherever you are. We sincerely hope your family and friends are safe and not deeply affected by the current events which are taking place in the Ukraine and Russia.
In accordance with IJRU’s values and principles, we condemn the acts of war that continue to escalate in the Ukraine by the Russian and Belarus governments. The global sporting community is responding to this humanitarian crisis by aligning with the IOC statement issued on 28 February:
The IOC recommendations are clear and calls for strong action against Russia and Belarus to be taken as quickly as possible.
The IOC EB (Executive Board) recommends that International Sports Federations and sports event organisers not to invite or allow the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials in international competitions.
The IOC EB maintains its urgent recommendation not to organise any sports event in Russia or Belarus, issued on 25 February 2022.
IJRU has and continues to align with the Olympic Movement. Many of our member nations have achieved sportingrecognitionandaresubjecttotheirNOCspoliciesandsanctions. The IJRU Executive Committee and Board of Directors will determine the appropriate sanctions as we seek the proper guidance from our affiliated groups and associations within the Olympic Movement as soon as possible.
Again, we wish to express our heartfelt sympathies to the courageous people of Ukraine and surrounding impacted nations and their people.
Sincerely,
Shaun Hamilton
IJRU President