Russian Cyclist Aleksandr Vlasov Withdraws from Paris Olympics

Russian cyclist Aleksandr Vlasov has decided not to participate in the Paris Olympics despite being approved to compete as a neutral athlete due to the war in Ukraine. Vlasov cited that the Paris track profile doesn't suit him, and his busy schedule as reasons for withdrawal. While Vlasov opted out, cyclists Tamara Dronova and Alena Ivanchenko are set to participate in the Games as confirmed by the IOC. This decision comes amidst restrictions on Russian and Belarusian athletes, allowing only individual participation without national symbols. The Paris Olympics are scheduled to run from July 26 to Aug. 11, with strict eligibility criteria imposed by the IOC on athletes from these countries.