LEN strongly condemns the actions of
the Russian government supported by Belarus, in its invasion of Ukraine. This
act of war has shattered the lives of Ukrainian citizens and is totally against
the spirit of sport.
The Bureau of European Aquatics (LEN)
met yesterday and decided not to invite Russian and Belarusian athletes and
officials to LEN events in response to the invasion of Ukraine by Russian
forces, until further notice. This is in line with recommendations of the
International Olympic Committee and aims to overcome practical conditions
related to the decisions of certain countries, as well as to protect the
health, safety, and welfare of all athletes. LEN is committed to continue its
work with FINA, the world aquatic governing body, to implement our respective
positions and hope for a better future.
Furthermore
• LEN will support a concrete
humanitarian initiative by the artistic swimming and diving federations of
Croatia to host Ukrainian athletes and family members as refugees. This
project, which is supported by FINA, will allow athletes to continue training
and representing Ukraine at international events. This initiative is supported
by Croatia’s Ministry of Sport and Tourism and hosts will include Zagreb,
Zadar, Rijeka, and others.
• No LEN competitions will be staged
in, or assigned to, the territories of Russia or Belarus until further notice.
The LEN Bureau 3 March 2022
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