Atlanta, GA 5/6/2008 11:43:58 PM
News / Sports

Olympic Athletes Must Adhere to Protest Rules in Beijing Olympics

The International Olympic Committee issued clarifications Monday on its protest rules for the upcoming games in Beijing, saying the conduct and apparel of its athletes would be scrutinized to ensure compliance.

 

Rule 51.3 of the Olympic charter states that “no kind of demonstration or political, religious or racial propaganda is permitted in any Olympic sites, venues or other areas.” In a letter to the national Olympic federations, the IOC expanded on that rule by including any actions, clothing or statements made by the athletes.

 

While punishment for those who break the rules was not addressed, a spokesman for the U.S. Olympic Committee stated that group would likely make the determination for discipline should an American athlete break Rule 51.

 

The IOC stated it recognized the rights of the Olympic athletes to express their opinions, but stressed the use of common sense and respect for fellow athletes.

 

The clarifications came with the Beijing Games less than 100 days away and in the face of the crackdown on protestors in China.

 

For more World News, please go to

http://www.transworldnews.com/NewsList.aspx?cat=11&wcat=1

 

For more Sports News, please go to

http://www.transworldnews.com/NewsList.aspx?cat=6&wcat=5