Controversy Surrounding Participation of Pariah States in Paris Olympics

The participation of 'rogue states' like Russia in the Olympics amid its invasion of Ukraine continues to be controversial, with various restrictions imposed on Russian athletes since the Sochi Winter Games due to state-sponsored doping. Amid the fallout from the invasion, global sports bodies have banned Russian teams from international competitions, with FIFA and UEFA initially prohibiting all Russian teams but later lifting the ban on youth teams. As the 2024 Paris Olympics unfold, viewers are reminded of the athletes' sacrifices and resilience, with stories like American runner Dave Wottle's comeback serving as inspiration. Meanwhile, the absence of legendary Olympians like Laszlo Cseh, Yuliya Efimova, and Federica Pellegrini marks a generational shift in the Games, with notable swimmers like Katinka Hosszu falling short of Olympic qualification but leaving a lasting legacy.