MOSCOW, June 25. /TASS/. The European Fencing Federation (EFC) ruled to reinstate athletes representing the Russian and Belarusian Fencing Federations, according to an EFC Executive Committee decision on Thursday, Russian Sports Minister and President of the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) Mikhail Degtyarev told TASS.
"The Russian Fencing Federation and the Belarusian Fencing Federation have been reinstated as part of the European Fencing Confederation. The corresponding decision was made by the EFC Executive Committee on June 24," he said.
"Earlier, the International Fencing Federation (FIE) reinstated the rights of all Russian fencers and allowed them to participate in international competitions under the national flag, including team tournaments. Congratulations to the Russian Fencing Federation, all athletes and fans of this sport with another important decision in our favor," Degtyarev added.
On June 2, the International Fencing Union (FIE) has scrapped all previously imposed restrictions on Russian and Belarusian national fencers, allowing them to compete in international tournaments under the national flag and to the tune of the country’s anthem.
