World Athletics maintains stance on Russian athletes

Sebastian Coe, president of World Athletics, has reconfirmed the organization's position that Russian athletes are not allowed to compete internationally due to concerns about the fairness and integrity of sports competitions. This decision is not influenced by political factors but is based on the need to uphold standards of competition.

Russian athletes compete in other sports

Despite the ban on Russian athletes in athletics, the country has had strong representation in other international competitions. For example, at the World Swimming Championships in Tashkent, 31 Russian swimmers competed under their national flag, making them the second-largest delegation after the host country, Uzbekistan.

Conditional return discussed but not implemented

World Athletics' Council and a working group have considered the possibility of allowing Russian and Belarusian athletes to return to international competition under certain conditions. However, Coe stated in July that the current sanctions remain in place due to the lack of progress in peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.

Russia criticizes the ban as unfair

Russia has criticized World Athletics' policies, calling them discriminatory and harmful to the development of athletics in the country. The Russian Athletics Federation has filed two appeals with the Arbitration Court of Sport (TAS), one in July and another in August, seeking to challenge the ban.

Russian federation seeks response and support

The Russian Athletics Federation expressed frustration over the lack of response from Coe to their appeal, which was submitted during the summer. They argue that athletes who have dedicated their lives to the sport deserve to be heard by the leaders of the international federation. Some Russian athletes have also sought support from the United Nations to address the issue.