Olympic Committee Not Discussing Barring Israel, Chief Says, Amid Calls for Exclusion Over Gaza War - Sports
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) said on Friday that it has never discussed suspending Israel from the Olympic Games, despite recent calls to exclude the country from international sporting events over the Gaza war.
At the same time, the committee confirmed that Russian athletes will be allowed to compete at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, though only under neutral status. As in last year's Paris Games, they will not be permitted to represent Russia's flag, anthem, or national symbols.
The announcement came during a press conference led by IOC President Kirsty Coventry. Asked directly whether the committee had ever considered banning Israel, she responded: "This executive board and in no other executive board have we discussed not having NOCs [National Olympic Committees] represented."
The IOC has repeatedly emphasized that Israel has not breached the Olympic charter, in contrast to Russia's violations through its annexation of Ukrainian territory.
Security, however, remains a concern. The IOC is expected to consider reinforced measures after pro-Palestinian protests disrupted the Vuelta cycling race in Spain, forcing organizers to shorten its route.
"The top priority of the organization, the host country, and the various committees is to ensure the safety of athletes, fans, and everyone involved in the Games," Coventry said. "That has not changed and will continue as normal."
Coventry underscored the committee's commitment to neutrality in sport, arguing that athletes can serve as ambassadors for peace. "Now more than ever, our movement, the sports movement, has to showcase the good that is in humanity," Coventry told a press conference.
"Remaining a beacon of hope, remaining a platform for athletes from around the world to be able to live out their dreams and for athletes to be able to help change perceptions," she said.
Russia's Olympic Committee has been suspended since 2023 after attempting to seize control of sports bodies in occupied eastern Ukraine. Under current restrictions, Russian teams cannot compete in group events, and individual athletes who serve in the military or openly support the invasion are barred from participation. Only those cleared as neutral competitors may enter, stripped of all national emblems, flags, or colors.