The ministers responsible for sports from the United States, Spain and 35 other countries signed an agreement on Tuesday to ban Russia and Belarus from any sporting event, in reaction to the “unprovoked and unjustifiable” Russian war against Ukraine.
The measure, which was signed by countries in America, Europe, Asia and Oceania, provides that “Russia and Belarus cannot host, apply or be chosen to organize any sporting event“, reported the US State Department in an official statement.
“Individual athletes selected by Russia and Belarus, officials and teams representing the Russian or Belarusian state will be prohibited from competing in other countries, including those with organizations, cities or brands representing Russia or Belarus, such as football teams,” it adds. the note.
The agreement, which for Spain was signed by the Minister of Culture and Sports, Miquel Iceta, also provides that “if possible, measures will be taken to limit sponsorship deals and other financial aid by entities related to the Russian or Belarusian state“.
Among the countries that signed the agreement are Germany, France, England, Italy, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan and Canada.
The statement expresses the wish that other countries join in supporting these principles and reports that the measures will remain in force “until cooperation under the principles of international law is again possible.”
Finally, “the international sports community is encouraged to continue to show solidarity with the Ukrainian people.”