Russian President Vladimir Putin has been stripped of his honorary taekwondo black belt by World Taekwondo.
Citing its motto of “Peace is More Precious than Triumph,” the body condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine, saying the “brutal attacks on innocent lives” violated the sport’s values of respect and tolerance.
“In this regard, World Taekwondo has decided to withdraw the honorary ninth dan black belt conferred on Mr Vladimir Putin in November 2013,” the governing body said in a statement.
It added that it would join the IOC in banning the Russian flag and anthem at its events. The decision comes after the International Judo Federation said on Sunday it would suspend Putin’s status as honorary president and ambassador “in light of the ongoing war conflict in Ukraine.”
“The British Olympic Association, together with the National Olympic Committee (NOC) of Germany, demands the immediate exclusion of Russia and Belarus from the international sports family until further notice.
“We call on the international sports federations to ban athletes representing Russia and Belarus from competitions for the time being and to suspend Russian and Belarusian officials from their positions.
“We stand united with the people, athletes and the Olympic family of Ukraine, following this unacceptable and unwarranted declaration of war against them.”
World Rugby suspends Russia and Belarus
In line with the IOC’s recommendations, World Rugby has also banned Russia and Belarus from all international rugby and cross-border club rugby activities until further notice. It has also suspended Rugby Union of Russia’s membership.
“World Rugby reiterates its condemnation of Russia’s aggressive invasion of Ukraine and the facilitation of this action by Belarus,” a statement read.
“The global rugby family is united in standing in solidarity with everyone affected by these deeply disturbing events and joins the global community in calling for the restoration of peace.
“The decision has been taken with the interests of rugby’s values of solidarity, integrity and respect at heart. World Rugby also remains in contact with colleagues at the Ukraine Rugby Federation and has pledged its full support to the rugby community in the country.”
Ice hockey ban for Russia and Belarusian teams
The International Ice Hockey Federation Council too has suspended all Russian and Belarusian national and club teams from IIHF competitions until further notice and and has stripped Russia of the right to host the 2023 World Junior Championships.
“The IIHF is not a political entity and cannot influence the decisions being taken over the war in Ukraine,” said IIHF President Luc Tardif. “We nevertheless have a duty of care to all of our members and participants and must therefore do all we can to ensure that we are able to operate our events in a safe environment for all teams taking part in the IIHF World Championship programme.” -Sky Sports
