The International Olympic Committee is telling athletes they will not tolerate kneeling, or any other forms of protest at the Tokyo Summer games that start next month.
Think that’s going to stop everyone? Probably not.
But they will be doing it at their own peril, as the IOC said they will punished. What will the punishment be? We don’t know that, but it’s safe to say a soft warning isn’t going to stop the more bold activist athletes.
Kristy Coventy is the IOC’s Athlete’s Commission chief, she laid out the details about the banning of any political spectacle athlete’s want to put on at the podium, during competition, or wherever else they feel the need.
“A very clear majority of athletes said that they think it’s not appropriate to demonstrate or express their views on the field of play, at the official ceremonies or at the podium. So, our recommendation is to preserve the podium, field of play and official ceremonies from any kind of protest or demonstrations or acts perceived as such.”
The games start in a month, but for whatever reason the IOC hasn’t figured out what the punishment will be.
We’ll see if they can make it through the Opening Ceremonies without having to lay down the law against violators.
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