Story Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
INTERNATIONAL Olympic Committee (IOC) president Kirsty Coventry has indicated that Russia could be readmitted to the Olympic Games ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 edition.
Speaking at the 145th IOC Congress in Milan on Wednesday, Coventry said sport should remain neutral and that athletes should not be penalised for the actions of their governments.
Without naming Russia, she told delegates that the Olympic Games must remain a place where athletes can compete freely, despite political divisions, describing sport as a platform that showcases the best of humanity in an increasingly divided world.
Her remarks come a day after FIFA president Gianni Infantino called for Russia’s return to international football, saying the current ban has “not achieved anything.”
Russia has been excluded from FIFA and UEFA competitions since the beginning of its military action in Ukraine in 2022, though it is still permitted to play friendly matches.
Russian IOC member, Shamil Tarpischev, welcomed Coventry’s comments, saying relations with the Olympic body have improved significantly.
Infantino, speaking to Sky News, said the ban should be reviewed, particularly for youth teams.
