Russian and Belarusian Athletes Banned from Competing in 2023 Asian Games

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has prohibited athletes from Russia and Belarus from participating in the 2023 Asian Games, as reported by Indian Press, citing the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA).

The OCA informed journalists that the decision was made by the IOC. The committee explained that the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes is impossible due to "technical reasons." However, the IOC did not clarify what these reasons are.

The 2023 Asian Games are scheduled to take place from September 23 to October 8 in Hangzhou, China. Previously, the sports publication Inside the Game had reported that 500 athletes from Russia and Belarus could participate in the Games, but without national symbols and with their results being indicated in the official medal tally of the countries. This would allow athletes to qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.