World Athletics Forms Working to Assess Russian and Belarussian Athlete Participation

World Athletics, the global governing body overseeing track and field, has officially announced the formation of an internal Working Group responsible for determining the eligibility of Russian and Belarussian athletes in international competitions and events. The decision to appoint members to the Working Group, headed by Francis Dadoo, was made during the World Athletics Council Meeting held in Monaco on Friday.

This Working Group, comprising individuals such as Beatrice Ayikoru, Arina Riccardi, Ami Baran, and Lea Sprunger, will play a pivotal role in advising and recommending to the World Athletics Council on the adequacy of sanctions imposed on Russia and Belarus. They will consider whether these sanctions should be altered, supplemented, or replaced with other sanctions as per Article 13 of the World Athletics Constitution.

One of the key responsibilities of the Group is to assess the conditions and criteria necessary for allowing the future participation of Russian and Belarussian athletes, Athlete Support Personnel, Member Federation Officials, and other Officials in World Athletics Series Events or the Olympic Games.

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It is crucial to note that all decisions stemming from the recommendations of the Working Group will ultimately rest with the Council. The Russian Athletics Federation and Belarus Athletic Federation have been duly informed about the formation and purpose of the Working Group along with its members.

During the Council’s 233rd meeting in Monaco, an extensive update was provided on the progress made in safeguarding measures. This encompassed plans to revise the World Athletics Safeguarding Policy, the creation of safeguarding materials for use by Area Associations, safeguarding plans for World Athletics Series events, and the introduction of the World Athletics Safeguarding Essentials course. Additionally, the Council approved the appointment of Jean Gracia to the Safeguarding Taskforce, replacing Karin Grute-Movin. They also welcomed the inclusion of two members from the Athletes’ Commission into the task force.

The Council made significant decisions about World Athletics’ World Plan, working groups, and competition rules. Notably, they gave the green light to the establishment of a World Plan Implementation Taskforce. This task force is set to build upon the already achieved milestones outlined in the World Plan for Athletics 2022-2030, aiming to sustain and enhance the positive momentum throughout the plan’s duration.

-IANS