IBA President Umar Kremlev made a statement on Wednesday to urge the IOC to listen to the athletes’ needs.  

‘IBA has made the first step towards equal opportunities and fairness. IBA will keep doing everything for the sake of its athletes and coaches, we have to create conditions, not deteriorate them. 

I would like to reiterate that sports are out of politics. We should have nothing in common with the games of politicians all around the world.  

The IOC should reconsider its approach to all athletes. The decision to exclude some of them based on their nationality is against the principles of the Olympic movement, it damages all sports. 

I urge the IOC to open the window for the athletes to keep performing, and I urge changing the policy that excludes athletes. 

I would like to address all international sports world: let all the athletes compete. They are not political tools, they are those who suffer from political decisions. They didn’t deserve that they are treated so badly by the entire sports environment.  

The politicians are doing their job to promote their interests, and we must do our job to secure our athletes and sports. The sports world is blocked by politicians and, unfortunately, is losing its autonomy. There should be no political games behind the athletes’ backs. It’s dangerous for the future of sports. The IOC must rectify the situation immediately. All athletes should be given a green light, as they are not guilty of anything.’ 

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