SPORTS
Russia withdraws from international judo events over safety fears
Baku, March 16, AZERTAC
Russia has withdrawn from international judo events, even though they are allowed to compete under a neutral flag, because they fear for their competitor’s safety, according to insidethegames.
The International Judo Federation (IJF) has cancelled its events in Russia but, unlike most other world governing bodies, has not banned Russian athletes completely following the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Under the current conditions, the national team's access to most countries where international competitions are held is significantly difficult," the FDR posted in a message on its website.
"In addition, the Russian Judo Federation has reason to fear for the safety of Russian athletes.
"The decision of the International Judo Federation and the European Judo Union (EJU), allowing Russian judokas to participate in starts under the symbols of the IJF, remains in force."
Judoka from Belarus have also revealed they will not take part in international competition.
The IJF responded to the news with a message on its own website.
"Following official communications received by the International Judo Federation, the Russian Judo Federation and the Belarussian Judo Federation have suspended their participation from all IJF and EJU international events," it said.
"There will be no Russian or Belarussian athletes participating in IJF and EJU events, with immediate effect."