The Czech government has banned Russian athletes from participating in all sporting competitions in the country. This was announced by the government on Wednesday evening with reference to Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
“The participation of individual athletes and sports teams representing the Russian Federation in sports competitions and games organized on Czech soil” is prohibited. It is not known whether Belarusian athletes are also affected by the exclusion.
This means that five-time ice hockey world champion Russia will not be able to participate in the 2024 World Cup, which will be held in the Czech Republic.
Athletes and teams representing the Czech Republic are also not allowed to compete in Russia. The decision was taken at the request of the Czech sports associations.