The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has clashed with Russia over the launch of the “Friendship Games,” a new multi-sport event planned for September 2024.
The IOC accuses Russia of “politicizing sport” with this competition, which directly rivals the Olympic Games.
Russia announced the Friendship Games several months ago, with a summer edition planned for Moscow and Yekaterinburg this September.
Winter Games are scheduled to follow in 2026, held in Sochi, the site of the controversial 2014 Winter Olympics.
These events come alongside recent initiatives like the Games of the Future and BRICS Games, both held in Kazan, Russia.
While the IOC doesn’t object to multi-sport competitions outside its control, their concern lies in Russia’s methods.
The IOC claims Russia is conducting an “intensive diplomatic offensive,” directly contacting governments to bypass established sporting organizations in target countries.
“This is a blatant violation of the Olympic Charter and an infringement of the various UN resolutions at the same time,” the IOC stated, calling it a “cynical attempt” to politicize sport.
The criticism extends beyond the Games themselves.
The IOC also expressed concerns about Russia’s commitment to anti-doping measures, citing issues raised by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) regarding the institutionalized doping scandal at the 2014 Sochi Games.
With Russia’s anti-doping agency still non-compliant and a lack of WADA-accredited laboratories, the IOC remains wary of Russia’s dedication to clean sport.
The Friendship Games and ongoing anti-doping issues create tension between the IOC and Russia. Whether these Games gain traction and how the IOC responds remain to be seen.
