In preparation for the upcoming Paris Games, Ukraine’s National Olympics Committee (NOC) is poised to introduce strict conduct guidelines for its athletes, explicitly cautioning against any interactions with Russians. NOC head Vadim Gutzeit disclosed the development during a live broadcast on Ukrainian television on Monday.
Gutzeit revealed, “These recommendations are already drafted but pending approval, as we are in dialogue with the NOC Athletes Commission. We’re finalizing details, and once approved, they will be implemented.”
Read More: Arsenal Battles to 2-2 Draw Against Bayern Munich in Champions League Thriller
The guidelines emphasize the avoidance of any contact with Russian counterparts throughout the Games. “Do not exchange congratulations, refrain from group photos, avoid joint interviews, and definitely no handshakes,” Gutzeit outlined.
The NOC has been coordinating with international sporting bodies to ensure compliance and prevent any conflicts with the approved conduct of Ukrainian athletes. Gutzeit referenced a past incident involving Ukrainian fencing star Olga Kharlan, who declined to shake hands with her Russian opponent, Anna Smirnova, at the World Championships in Milan last year. Smirnova competed as a neutral athlete in the event.
Initially disqualified from the Championship, Kharlan received support from International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach, who advocated for rule changes, acknowledging shifting global dynamics. Consequently, Kharlan was reinstated in the tournament and granted a direct entry to the Paris Games.
