Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Russian Chess Federation plans to transition from Europe to Asia, allowing its players to compete in Asian tournaments. This move reflects the ongoing sanctions and strained relations with European sports bodies. The IOC has supported this shift, claiming safety concerns no longer exist in Asia. The inclusion of Russian athletes is projected to heighten competition levels in various sports, although resistance persists from European nations such as Ukraine.
On February 26, 2023, over a year after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Russian Chess Federation plans to leave Europe for Asia. This potential shift would allow over 35,000 players, including 200 Grandmasters, to access Asian tournaments, marking a significant moment in global sports. The transition is seen as a simple formality by the Russian chess officials.
The European Chess Union’s recent statement indicates that the Russian Federation’s move coincides with the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) inviting Russian and Belarusian athletes to participate in its events. This invitation aims to facilitate their qualification for the upcoming Paris Olympics. Football authorities in Russia also considered a similar move to Asia, although that plan is currently on hold.
The motivation behind this shift lies primarily in Russia’s deteriorating relationship with European nations post-invasion, which has led to sanctions and exclusion of Russian athletes from various international competitions. The impending Olympic qualifying tournaments in Europe have raised uncertainties for Russian athletes regarding participation.
In chess, the Russian Federation’s suspension by its European governing body complicates competition opportunities. This situation is reflected in football, as Russia is not included in qualifying draws for Euro 2024 and faces challenges for the World Cup upcoming qualifications. The urgency for Russian athletes to find alternate avenues becomes paramount.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has characterized the exclusion of Russian athletes from international competitions as a protective measure against external sanctions. The IOC clarified that concerns over athlete safety in some countries contributed to this exclusion, but remarked that such issues do not exist in Asia, prompting the OCA to extend invitations to Russian athletes.
Russia’s potential participation in Asian events could significantly enhance competitive levels in sports, including chess. A considerable influx of Russian talent into Asian competitions may elevate standards across various disciplines, including the Asian Games, which will see participation from around 500 Russian and Belarusian athletes, albeit under neutral regulations.
As for resistance to Russia’s move in Asia, feedback has thus far been minimal. The South Korean Olympic body is seeking clarification but has not expressed disapproval. Similarly, the Chinese Olympic Committee advocates for equal participation rights for athletes worldwide, supporting the inclusion of Russian competitors in Asian events.
Conversely, European sentiments are less favorable. Ukraine has threatened to boycott the Paris Olympics if Russian athletes participate, echoing sentiments from previous international events. Critics, including officials from Britain, Germany, and Latvia, have denounced any IOC efforts to re-integrate Russian athletes into Olympic competitions.
Historically, countries have transitioned between continents in sports for enhanced competition levels. Australia, for instance, moved from Oceania to the Asian Football Confederation over a decade ago. Additionally, the OCA previously invited athletes from Australia and New Zealand to participate in the 2017 Asian Winter Games, showcasing past precedents of continental collaboration.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
