Wednesday, 25 Dec 2024

BWF Permits Participation of Neutral Athletes from Russia and Belarus

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has made an important decision to allow athletes from Russia and Belarus to participate as Individual Neutral Athletes in BWF sanctioned tournaments starting from February 26, 2024.

A Positive Step Forward

The BWF Council has voted to approve a regulative framework that allows athletes with Russian and Belarusian passports to compete as neutrals. This decision aligns with the principles of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and promotes peace and solidarity in the global sports movement.

Eligibility and Monitoring

To ensure fair participation, a player eligibility panel will be established to conduct due diligence and scrutinize all conditions of entry. The BWF will closely monitor the behavior of Individual Neutral Athletes to ensure compliance with these conditions.

Supporting Ukraine and Condemning Invasion

BWF President Poul-Erik Høyer reiterated the organization’s unwavering support to the people of Ukraine and the Ukrainian badminton community. He strongly condemned the invasion of Ukraine as it goes against BWF’s core values and its objective to obtain peace.

Framework Implementation

The practical implementation of the framework and the participation of Individual Neutral Athletes will be done in coordination with the Member Hosts of the respective events. This collaborative approach will mitigate the risk of tournament cancellation and other disproportionate impacts on tournament organizers.

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Reinstatement Process

The first steps towards reinstatement will begin in September, with eligibility applications followed by a due diligence process. Approved players will then undergo a robust anti-doping and testing framework. This paves the way for their participation in the beginning of 2024 and towards the tournaments in February 2024.

Continued Evaluation

It is important to note that if the behavior of an individual athlete compromises the eligibility criteria used for reinstatement, the BWF reserves the right to reconsider their playing status.

Working Towards Fairness and Transparency

BWF Secretary General Thomas Lund expressed confidence in the transparency of the framework. He highlighted the close collaboration between BWF, the IOC, the Athletes’ Commission, the Continental Confederations, and the Member Associations directly involved. The focus now is on presenting safe and fair sport for all players.

FAQs

Q: What is the regulative framework for allowing athletes from Russia and Belarus to participate as Individual Neutral Athletes?

A: The regulative framework follows the IOC’s eligibility criteria for participation and includes a detailed administrative process to support the entry of players from Russia and Belarus as neutral athletes.

Q: How will the behavior of Individual Neutral Athletes be monitored?

A: A player eligibility panel will be established to conduct due diligence and scrutinize all conditions of entry. The BWF will closely monitor the behavior of athletes to ensure compliance with these conditions.

Q: When will the first entries of Individual Neutral Athletes be possible?

A: The first entries of Individual Neutral Athletes will be possible at the beginning of 2024, with their participating in tournaments commencing in February 2024.

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Conclusion

The Badminton World Federation’s decision to permit the participation of neutral athletes from Russia and Belarus is a positive step towards promoting peace and solidarity in international competitions. The implementation of a comprehensive framework and close collaboration with various stakeholders ensures fairness, transparency, and the safety of all participants. The BWF remains committed to supporting the people of Ukraine and condemns the invasion, as it goes against the organization’s core values. By providing a platform for neutral athletes, the BWF upholds the principles of open participation and aims to present safe and fair sport for all players.

For more information about the Badminton World Federation (BWF), please visit Carnegiecentre.