International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach has told Ukraine that its calls for a boycott of the 2024 Paris Games over the possible participation of Russian competitors goes against Olympic "principles." In a letter to the Ukrainian National Olympic Committee revealed on February 9, Bach said Ukraine's efforts in "pressuring" other countries to boycott the 2024 Games was "extremely regrettable." The IOC said last month it was exploring a "pathway" to allow Russian and Belarusian competitors to take part in the Paris Olympics, under a neutral flag. Ukraine has reacted furiously, threatening to pull out of the Olympics.
Ukraine-Led 2024 Boycott Call Is Against Olympic Principles, IOC Chief Says
IOC President Thomas Bach (file photo)