“You understand, mood and anger in sports is of no small importance.”
During a conversation with journalists, Lukashenko speculated about the performance of Belarusian athletes at the Olympics in Paris in a neutral status.
“Of course, we wanted the anthem, flag and so on, as it should be. But I understand athletes: it’s their life. <…> It’s the athlete’s business. If he decides to participate in the Olympics, he will be even angrier. You understand that mood and anger in sports is important. But if you are selected and go there in a neutral status, beat them up, show them that you are a real Belarusian.
It’s not specified who exactly Lukashenka urged to “punch in the face.
Recall, December 8 last year, the Executive Committee of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) decided that Belarusians and Russians will be able to perform at the Games in Paris in 2024 in a neutral status. Athletes and personnel who “actively support the war” will not be allowed to compete.
