More than 10,500 athletes from around 200 countries will be participating in the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris. However, Russia will only have a small contingent of 15 athletes, who will compete without the Russian flag or national anthem.
Back in Russia, the Games will not be broadcasted on television for the first time since 1984. The state TV channels are paying minimal attention to the event, often highlighting perceived flaws in the Games with commentary that reflects a sense of disappointment.
For instance, news segments have focused on the cleanup of the Seine River, expressing skepticism about its sustainability. Additionally, there has been criticism over a drag queen carrying the Olympic torch, which contradicts Russia’s emphasis on “traditional values” and its strict stance against L.G.B.T.Q. expression.
Historically, Russia has been a dominant force in the Olympics, using the Games to showcase national strength and unite its people. However, due to the country’s involvement in the conflict in Ukraine, it has been banned from full participation, resulting in a subdued presence in Paris.
Russia’s decision to downplay the Games reflects a broader narrative pushed by President Vladimir V. Putin, portraying the country as locked in a struggle against a Western coalition aiming to undermine Russia’s status.
“No one wants to acknowledge the true reason behind the restrictions on Russia’s involvement,” noted Dmitri Navosha, a Belarusian sports journalist. “The root cause is the ongoing war.” He highlighted that in Russia, this reality is often obscured and twisted to fit the narrative that “the West is against Russia, hence the limitations.”
