BY OSABUOHIEN VIVIAN-ROSE
Norway has joined Poland in refusing to host international swimming competitions in protest against the return of athletes from Russia and Belarus to full competition status.
The Norwegian Swimming Federation announced it will not organize any championships as long as World Aquatics allows Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete with their national symbols, including flags and anthems.
Federation president Cato Bratbakk stated that the decision reflects a firm stance against the governing body’s recent move to restore full participation rights to the two nations.
World Aquatics had suspended athletes from Russia and Belarus following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, but earlier this month lifted those restrictions, allowing them to return to competitions under their national identities.
Norway is now pushing for a wider regional response, with plans to discuss a collective boycott with other Nordic countries in an upcoming meeting.
Meanwhile, World Aquatics defended its position, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining sport as a neutral ground where athletes from all countries can compete peacefully.
