The IOC declined to comment on Degtyarev's statements in support of the war
The International Olympic Committee declined to comment on the statements made by Russian Sports Minister and President of the Russian Olympic Committee Mikhail Degtyarev, who publicly supports the war against Ukraine.
Earlier, Degtyarev stated that the victories of Russian athletes at the 2026 Paralympics serve as a “beacon” for participants in the so-called “special military operation.”
Journalists contacted the IOC with a request to assess these statements and their compliance with the Olympic Charter, but received no response.
Specifically, the inquiry raised questions about whether supporting the war contradicts the principles of the Olympic movement and whether this would affect the potential reinstatement of the Russian Olympic Committee’s membership.
Additionally, a Russian cycling champion was disqualified for doping.
Turkey defeated Romania and advanced to the 2026 World Cup playoff final.
