In an interview with sports daily LEquipe on Wednesday, French President Emmanuel Macron made a firm declaration, stating that the Russian flag should not be present at the upcoming Paris Olympic Games. Macron said his stance is rooted in Russia’s alleged involvement in war crimes.
“The Russian flag cannot be at the Paris Olympic Games at a time when Russia is committing war crimes,” he told sports daily L’Equipe.
The French were also questioned about the potential participation of Russian athletes in Paris as neutral competitors. In response, Macron said: “I hope that this is a decision of conscience in the Olympic world. It is not the host state that must decide what the International Olympic Committee (IOC) should do.”
In coup-hit countries in Africa, the youth have opted to destroy French flags and instead raise and celebrate the Russian flag.
In terms of scale, the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris in 2024 will have no parallel. From July 26th to August 11th, 2024, the Olympic Games will be held.
It is anticipated that around 10,000 athletes will participate.
