Why Belarusian wrestlers aren't representing their country at Paris Olympics 2024?

A couple of wrestlers from Belarus are taking part in the Paris Olympics 2024. However, they are not allowed to represent their country. In fact, athletes from Belarus and Russia from all Sports are banned from representing their countries due to global tensions. The two countries are banned from the Olympics for their provocation and involvement in the war against Ukraine. The news has not gone well with the athletes from these countries.

Russia waged a war against Ukraine for a territory in 2022. The war is yet to be stopped and hence there has been a cloud of anger against the country. It ensured their ban from the ongoing Paris Olympics 2024. On the other hand, as Belarus openly supported Russia, they were banned from the marquee event. Only 5 athletes from Russia and a few from Belarus will be taking part in the event.

Two wrestlers from Belarus, Abubakar Khaslakhanau and Mahamedkhabib Kadzimahamedau, will be competing in different categories. While Abubakar will be taking part in the Greco-German 97 kg category, Mahamedkhabib will be taking part in the Men's 74 kg freestyle category. The Russian wrestlers who qualified for the event were refused to participate by their government.

What's AIN and how does it impact Russian and Belarusian athletes?

One would think how the Belarusian wrestlers would still be taking part in the event despite being banned from the IOC. A special delegation named AIN (Athlètes Individuals Neutres) or Individual Neutral Athletes has been formed where the athletes from Belarus and Russia will be allowed to take part in the event. However, their success will not have anything to do with their country.

The athletes can take part in the Olympics as a neutral participant. They will be playing under the banner of AIN and won't be taking part in the torch-lighting ceremony or other formalities involving their countries. A special logo has also been allotted to the athletes representing the delegation. If the Belarusian duo manage to claim a medal in their respective events, it will be considered as their individual achievements.