Russia Postpones World Friendship Games Indefinitely
Russia has postponed the World Friendship Games, its rival to the Olympics, indefinitely, according to German news agency dpa. The decision was made after President Vladimir Putin signed a decree stating that the Games should not take place as long as athletes and sports associations do not have free access to international competitions.
Reason for Postponement
Analysts believe that the real reason for the postponement is a lack of funding. The Games were originally planned for September in Yekaterinburg and were intended as a replacement for Russian athletes who were not allowed to compete at the Paris 2024 Olympics due to Moscow’s war in Ukraine.
Limited Participation in Paris 2024
Only around a dozen Russian athletes were allowed to compete in France under a neutral flag. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has criticized the Russian rival Games and has called on its member federations not to take part.
Background
The World Friendship Games were launched by Russia as a response to the IOC’s decision to ban Russian athletes from competing in international events due to the country’s involvement in the war in Ukraine. The Games were seen as a way for Russian athletes to compete and showcase their skills, despite the ban.
Impact on Russian Sports
The postponement of the World Friendship Games is a significant blow to Russian sports, which have been heavily impacted by the country’s international isolation. The lack of funding and limited participation in international events has made it difficult for Russian athletes to compete and train at the highest level.
Conclusion
The postponement of the World Friendship Games is a setback for Russian sports, but it also highlights the challenges faced by the country in terms of funding and international participation. The IOC’s ban on Russian athletes has had a significant impact on the country’s sports scene, and it remains to be seen how Russian athletes will be able to compete in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why was the World Friendship Games postponed?
A: The Games were postponed due to a lack of funding and the IOC’s ban on Russian athletes.
Q: What was the original purpose of the World Friendship Games?
A: The Games were launched as a response to the IOC’s decision to ban Russian athletes from competing in international events due to the country’s involvement in the war in Ukraine.
Q: How many Russian athletes were allowed to compete in Paris 2024?
A: Only around a dozen Russian athletes were allowed to compete in France under a neutral flag.
Q: What is the impact of the postponement on Russian sports?
A: The postponement is a significant blow to Russian sports, which have been heavily impacted by the country’s international isolation.