Despite Deadly War Against Ukraine, FINA Brings Smiles to Russian Swimming Team With a Special Announcement Before 2024 Olympics

The world is waiting for the most anticipated sporting event of them all, the Olympics. While this global event is just a few months away, two nations remain uncertain about their participation. These two countries are Russia and Belarus, which were banned by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The unresolved conflict between Russia and Ukraine has resulted in the IOC banning athletes from Russia and Belarus. Athletes from these nations were left heartbroken after the ban, but there appears to be a ray of hope for them.

FINA, the F?d?ration Internationale de Natation, aka the World Aquatics, has provided a set of rules for the swimming athletes of these nations. These rules will open the door for Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete in international events, including the 2024 Olympics.

The set of rules to be followed by the swimming athletes

As per the reports from AP News, the Russian swimmers were given permission to participate in the global events. However, they will have to follow a set of rules that include avoiding interaction with the media. Swimmers and their coaches from both nations will have to participate as individuals.

The teams from the aforementioned nations are allowed to participate. As per the rules of World Aquatics, only a single athlete from both nations will be allowed to enter each swimming and diving event. In a statement, the president of World Aquatics, Husain al Musallam, said, “Despite the challenges we face on the international stage, we acknowledge our responsibility to foster a competitive, fair, and inclusive environment for every competitor.”

Athletes are also not allowed to participate in relay events, water polo, artistic swimming, or even synchronized diving events.?The rules have been in effect since Monday, but there is still uncertainty about athletes applying for neutral status. Despite these rules, the swimmer still has to do a lot more to qualify for the Olympics.

What swimmers require to ensure their Olympic qualification

These individual athletes will have to take part in the key upcoming events, which include three World Cup meets in October in Berlin, Athens, and Budapest, as well as the 2024 aquatics world championships in February next year in Doha, Qatar.

After they are able to perform well in these meets, only they will stand a chance to qualify for the Olympics commencing in July 2024.

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These nations have also been barred from using their national flags and national anthems during the events, and the athletes and their support staff will have to don a plain white kit throughout their participation. As the world eagerly anticipates the Olympics, the swimming community faces unique challenges.

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