World masters sambo championships in Limassol face cancellation over flag dispute

The World Masters Sambo Championships, scheduled to be held in Limassol on November 20 and 21, are at risk of cancellation or relocation. The dispute arises from a disagreement between the International Sambo Federation (FIAS) and the Cyprus Sports Organisation (KOA) regarding the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes. While FIAS demands that athletes from these nations be allowed to compete under their national flags and anthems, the Cyprus authorities refuse, citing international commitments and four joint declarations made by Cyprus to impose sporting sanctions against Russia and Belarus following the invasion of Ukraine.

The event is expected to host approximately 500 visitors, including about 100 Russian and two Belarusian athletes. Marios Andreou, the FIAS representative in Cyprus, stated that the organization is still uncertain if the event can proceed in Limassol, noting that the absence of national symbols might force a relocation. The AKEL political party has criticized the government and KOA for these restrictions, arguing that such political decisions harm the country's reputation and jeopardize future international sporting events in Cyprus. As of now, the event remains in limbo as the federation and the state seek a resolution.