DOHA: The Executive Committee of International Judo Federation has voted to permit neutral athletes from Russia and Belarus to participate at the World Judo Championships 2023 as Individual Neutral Athletes.
The competition starts here at the Ali bin Ahmed Al Attiyah Arena from tomorrow.
The IJF Executive Committee has received the list of proposed participants and has commissioned independent background checks on the athletes and delegates to ensure both their place of employment and any social media interactions regarding pro-war propaganda.
“As a globally recognised sports organisation, the IJF is committed to promoting equality and transparency in all aspects of competition. We strive to ensure that all athletes, regardless of their nationality or background, have the opportunity to compete on a level playing field, without discrimination,” IJF said in a statement.
“Only athletes employed at the Federal Training Sport Center of the representative teams of Russia and athletes for whom no information was identified suggesting support for or views on the Russian invasion of Ukraine have been approved to compete at the World Judo Championships 2023 and in IJF competitions. After conducting thorough background investigations, eight members of the delegation were rejected from participation following the Executive Committee vote.” (IJF)
