The International Fencing Federation (FIE) has made a controversial decision by approving in an extraordinary congress the return of Russian and Belarusian fencers to international competitions.

This move comes after both countries were banned from sporting events in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. However, the reintegration of athletes from Russia and Belarus has not been welcomed by everyone.

SOME COUNTRIES REFUSE IT

Several countries have expressed their rejection of the FIE’s decision and have announced that they will not be willing to host competitions that include fencers from Russia and Belarus.

This conflict of interest anticipates a possible scenario of tension in the face of the next Olympic Games in Paris 2024, where the participation of these athletes could generate new controversies and divisions between nations.

The international sports community finds itself once again in a delicate balance between politics and sports practice. Resolution of this situation will require dialogue and consensus between all parties involved.