IOC Considering Tokyo Probation for Italy for Interference

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The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is considering banning the Italian flag and anthem for the 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games.

The IOC is debating the situation after a two-year domestic dispute stemming from what it calls government interference, according to The Associated Press.

The Italian government formed an organization called “Sport e Salute” that was created in 2019 to run the sports finances for the country, moving the money away from the Italian Olympic Committee.

The Olympic Committee of Italy, also known as CONI, has traditionally run all sports in Italy,  including the financial side, which includes the $325 million in 2020, according to the AP.

According to the AP report, CONI said it has no problem with the funding but has taken exception to the government’s meddling with its election procedures, and its ability to control its staff.

The IOC could keep Italian athletes from wearing their national team uniforms and hearing their national anthem being played if it deems that the correct ruling.

Russia is facing a two-year international ban, which athletes can compete independently, but not for their nation because of doping issues.

According to the AP report, The IOC could decide at its executive committee meeting Wednesday on a provisional suspension, which has the ability to later be lifted if the government provides more autonomy for CONI before the Olympics are scheduled to start on July 23.

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