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Iraq banned from Beijing Olympics

24/07/2008

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has confirmed that Iraq will be banned for competing in the Beijing Games.

The Iraqi team came under considerable criticism after the country's government decided to replace its Olympic committee with its own appointees.

Under the IOC charter, all Olympic committees must be free from any political influence.

"This morning we were informed of the final decision of the International Olympic Committee to suspend the membership of the Iraqi Olympic Committee," the general secretary of the Iraqi Olympic Committee, Hussein al-Amidi, said.

Reports quote a letter dated July 23rd, sent by the IOC, as stating: "In spite of all the joint efforts of IOC and OCA (Olympic Council of Asia), over the last months to find a positive solution with the Iraqi government authorities, we regretfully inform you that the decision of the IOC executive board dated June 4th 2008 to suspend the National Olympic Committee of Iraq is confirmed."

"We deeply regret this outcome which severely harms the Iraqi Olympic and Sports Movement and the Iraqi athletes but which is unfortunately imposed by the circumstances."

As a result of today's decision, seven Iraqi athletes, two rowers, two sprinters, one archer, one weightlifter and one judo competitor will be unable to attend the opening ceremony in Beijing on August 8th.