Former boxing world champion Wladimir Klitschko has accused the IOC around President Thomas Bach of "betrayal of the Olympic idea".

The decision of the International Olympic Committee to pave the way for athletes from Russia and Belarus to return to international competitions is the wrong policy, Klitschko told "Sport Bild". "Bach has to be careful that his decision doesn't make him an accomplice in Putin's cruel war," warned the Ukrainian.

The head of the IOC should not allow Kremlin chief Vladimir Putin to use pictures of Russian athletes at the Olympics for his propaganda. Bach must not "hide under the white flag - he must now show his colors for the free world and the freedom of the people," Klitschko demanded.

Klitschko does not rule out a boycott

The IOC is striving for the readmission of Russians and Belarusians in international sport, provided they clearly commit themselves to the Olympic charter and do not actively support the war in Ukraine. Klitschko pointed out that the athletes stand for their countries and represent their politics. Some would also have declared their consent to war. "This is crazy. Today, Russians are Olympic champions in crimes against civilians," said Klitschko.

In the event that Russians and Belarusians are also allowed to take part in the 2024 Olympics in Paris, the 46-year-old advocates a boycott of Ukraine. "I would support a boycott and I hope that other nations would also take a stand in this case," said Klitschko.