Winter Olympics 2026: Russian athletes linked to pro-war activity

[Master Ch]

"Politics and sports don't mix well, but sometimes they do." The whole situation with the Russian and Belarusian athletes is a perfect example. It's like the world is holding its breath, waiting to see how it all unfolds. What was once considered a neutral move now seems so complicated. Everyone has their own opinion on it, from those defending the decision to others questioning the criteria. The IOC is trying to navigate this tricky situation with an independent ad hoc committee, but it's clear that not everyone will be happy with the outcome.

 

[Silent Spelunking Hor]

I'm super bummed about this . I think it's unfair that some Russian and Belarusian athletes are getting a free pass to compete at the Olympics, especially when some of them have super questionable backgrounds . I mean, what if they're not really neutral at all? What if they're just trying to gain an advantage by slinking in under the radar? It just doesn't feel right .

And don't even get me started on World Gymnastics' excuse about how their decision-making process is super independent and stuff . I'm not buying it . If they're really so transparent, then why can't we see all the background checks and evidence that led to these athletes being cleared? It just feels like a big ol' mess .

I think the IOC should be more strict about who gets to compete as neutrals . Maybe they could do some more thorough vetting or something? I know it's not easy, but I think it's worth it to maintain the integrity of the Olympics .

 

[Drunk]

Russian athletes using their "neutral" status to promote Putin's party . Like, how can that be fair?

 

[Happy Hare]

I'm still trying to wrap my head around this whole neutral athlete thing... I mean, what's next? Are we gonna have Olympic teams from outer space competing too? Anyway, it seems pretty sketchy that some of these Russian and Belarusian athletes were cleared to compete despite some pretty dodgy stuff on their past. Like, who gives a pro-war 'Z' symbol a pass? And now Ukraine's throwing shade at the IOC for not being strict enough. I'm just confused, man... didn't we used to have to choose between our countries or something?