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ROC pays banned Russian Olympic athletes

BBC Sport •
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The Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) announced cash payments for 116 athletes barred from competing at the Winter Olympics. Russian Sports Minister Mikhail Degtyarev confirmed the decision, calling the exclusion "treacherous political decisions." Only 13 Russian athletes gained approval to compete as neutrals at the Milan-Cortina Games in February, while most faced international bans following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Despite the restrictions, the ROC remains determined to restore full national competition rights. Degtyarev stated his organizations "are doing everything possible" to bring Russian athletes back under their national flag and anthem. The ministry plans to negotiate with international bodies and defend athletes' rights in court when necessary.

Nikita Filippov stood as Russia's sole medalist, claiming silver in ski mountaineering. Meanwhile, the International Olympic Committee allows neutral competition for individuals who meet strict criteria against supporting the war. Six Russian and four Belarusian athletes competed under their national flag at the Winter Paralympic Games in March, marking a partial lifting of suspensions after 2014.