The IOC has criticised unacceptable government interference in trying to ban Russian athletes from sporting events. Russian and Belarusian athletes could soon be given the green light to compete in some qualifying events for the Asia 2024 Olympics. IOC President Thomas Bach has always insisted the recommendation is a protective measure for Russian and Belarusian athletes in the face of what his organization on Friday called unacceptable interference by national governments in trying to discourage athletes from participating in sporting events on their territory. The reintegration of Russian athletes was the subject of intense debates at the Olympic summit, the IOC said, and the Asian Olympic Council gave its blessing to Russian and Belarusian athletes competing in events under its jurisdiction in the run-up to Paris.