Sara Essayah knocks down the IOC’s Russia decision

KOK: n hallitus boat on Tuesday dismantled the Russian Olympic Committee and stated that previous participation recommendations given to international sports federations are no longer valid. The decision may open the way for Russian athletes to the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, but the final decisions are still largely up to sports associations and practical arrangements.

“Yes, from Finland’s point of view, this is a really unfortunate decision, no doubt about it. I do not support this decision,” says Essayah.

The decision that raised an uproar came as a surprise to Essayah.

“Even though there were several signs in the air, the decision still came as a surprise. I did not expect that it would be made at that very board meeting.”

Essayah is a personal member of the IOC and thus belongs to the IOC General Assembly. He is not part of the 15-member IOC board that made the decision.

Accordingly, Essayah did not participate in the discussion or voting on the decision.

“After Emma Terhon the board position ended after the Milan–Cortina Olympics, we have not had a Finnish link to the board. When the link is missing, we don’t know how the issue has been handled in the government,” says Essayah.

Essayah reminds that the attitude of international sports towards Russia has been inconsistent even before the IOC’s recent decision. Among other things, the international gymnastics, swimming and wrestling federations have allowed Russian athletes to participate in their competitions under different conditions. At the same time, in athletics, for example, the line has remained strict.

“At the same time, Russians also participate in many professional leagues, such as the NHL, NBA and tennis tours. Overall, the situation in international sports is quite relaxed.”

The Olympic Committee’s government’s decision was preceded by an amendment to the Olympic Charter in June, which emphasized the political neutrality of sports and athletes. Essayah was not present at the general meeting where the change was decided.

“Before the general assembly, there was speculation as to whether the amendment to the charter could be related in some way to the return of the Russians. Although the matter was not on the agenda of the meeting, the conclusion could now be drawn that the amendment was the basis for the decision on Russia.”

However, the IOC’s decision does not guarantee that Russian athletes will enter the Olympics.

“You have to remember that every country has its national sovereignty. If a country doesn’t grant visas to Russians, the IOC can’t walk over it. Although international sports make decisions, it can’t influence visa practices,” concludes Essayah.