The European Swimming Federation has requested a postponement from World Aquatics to delay the return of Russia and Belarus to competitions with flags and anthems until September 1. This maneuver aims to prevent both countries from participating in the 2026 Paris Olympics under their national symbols, sparking a debate on neutrality in sports.
The neutrality system as a potential global technical standard 🌍
The European proposal outlines a technical model where athletes compete under a neutral flag, without national anthems or state symbols. This system, similar to those used in other sports, requires an identity verification platform and compliance with anti-doping rules. World Aquatics must decide whether to implement this protocol as a standard, which would involve adjustments to registration systems and live broadcasts to avoid displaying national emblems.
The art of swimming without flag or anthem 🏊
It seems the solution for Russia and Belarus to return to the pool is for their swimmers to wear an armband with the federation logo, but without the flag. So, if a Russian wins gold, the podium stays silent. There will be no anthem, only the sound of dripping water. At least this way, judges won't have to learn the lyrics of an anthem that hasn't been heard since 2022.