The International Judo Federation doesn’t allow eight Russians to qualify for the Olympics, but none of them are athletes

Federation bans support staff, coaches, and delegation leaders who are "to some extent connected to the country's leadership."

The specialised publication “Inside the Games" reports that the federation's director general Vlad Marinescu announced this at a press conference.

It will be recalled that the International Judo Federation let Russians and Belarusians participate in its competitions under a neutral flag. An "independent company" vetted athletes and staff for participation in war propaganda.

According to its report, none of the athletes were allegedly involved in propaganda for the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

At the same time, according to Suspilne, at least seven registered athletes are members of the Central Sports Club of the Russian Army and, therefore, are military personnel.

In addition, the International Judo Federation registered two citizens of Belarus for the 2023 championship under a neutral flag. This was done in violation of the federation's rules. Svidomi asked the organisation to comment on its actions but didn’t receive any response.