Belarus’ Deputy PM on work underway to return Belarusian athletes to international competitions

The work carried out at all levels to return Belarusian athletes to international competitions has already enabled them to gain admission to international competitions in 32 sports – as noted by Belarus’ Deputy Prime Minister Igor Petrishenko in the report: The Social Sphere as an Indicator of the Quality of Life of the Population

“The year of 2023 – like the previous one – was quite difficult for top-level sports due to unjustified and far-fetched sanctions by international sports organisations. Despite these restrictions, last year, the 2nd CIS Games were held at a high organisational level, bringing together over 2,000 athletes from the CIS member states and 13 other friendly countries. Belarus took second place in the overall medal standings at these competitions, earning 247 awards, including 55 gold medals,” Mr. Petrishenko said.

At the same time, he particularly underlined that the work conducted at all levels to return Belarusian athletes to international competitions has already enabled them to gain admission to international competitions in 32 sports.

“Having returned to the world stage, our athletes have confirmed their high class, claiming medals at the world championships in boxing, wrestling, swimming, taekwondo, and weightlifting. Our athletes have also demonstrated decent results at the BRICS Games, bringing together about 90 countries of the world. Belarusian athletes have already won 134 awards, including 26 gold medals,” the Deputy PM added.

Systematic preparation of Belarusian athletes for the 2024 Olympic Games is currently underway. Candidates for participation in this event are provided with everything necessary, including medical and pharmacological support.

“The Olympic qualification standards for the Paris Games were fulfilled by 31 athletes in 11 sports. Other athletes also have a chance to qualify for the Games,” the official said.