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IOC28 Dec 2025, 22:47 from InsideTheGames
The Russian Luge Federation president, Natalia Gart, has condemned Latvia's decision to deny entry to 14 Russian athletes and accompanying personnel for the upcoming FIL World Cup stage in Sigulda. Gart described the move as 'politically motivated' and a 'dangerous precedent' that undermines trust in international sports and Olympic values, particularly as it impacts athletes' qualification for the 2026 Winter Olympics. Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braze confirmed the entry bans on December 24th.
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IOC27 Dec 2025, 17:19 from InsideTheGames
A new team padel circuit, the Hexagon World Series, has been officially launched through a collaboration between the Hexagon Cup, 54 Group, and the International Padel Federation (FIP). This series, fully integrated into the FIP calendar, aims to expand padel's global reach and strengthen its bid for inclusion in the Olympic Games. The initiative, backed by significant investment from 54 Group, will feature mixed-gender teams and equal prize money, complementing existing tours like Premier Padel. Details regarding the format, teams, and schedule will be released in 2026.
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IOC27 Dec 2025, 05:39 from SportsInOrganization mentioned: IOC
A report details how Juan Antonio Samaranch, during his tenure at the International Olympic Committee (IOC, 458), miscalculated the political role of Islam and appeased Iranian authorities, inadvertently legitimizing restrictions on Iranian women athletes. Initiatives like the Islamic Women’s Games, supported by Samaranch and Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah, reinforced strict Islamic regulations rather than promoting women's freedom in sport. The report highlights decades of discrimination against Iranian women in sports following the 1979 Revolution and criticizes the IOC's failure to adequately address the issue.
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IOC26 Dec 2025, 22:11 from InsideTheGamesPerson mentioned: Johan EliaschOrganization mentioned: FIS
Following a technical fault that delayed artificial snow production at the Livigno venue for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, organizers have confirmed the issue is resolved and snowmaking is back on track. A broken pipe was repaired within five days, and the system is now producing 28,000 cubic meters of snow per day. Concerns raised by International Ski Federation (ISF) President Johan Eliasch regarding preparation delays have been addressed, with local authorities expressing confidence in meeting the required snow levels and delivering a successful event. The incident highlights logistical challenges and provides valuable lessons for future Winter Olympic Games.
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IOC26 Dec 2025, 21:55 from InsideTheGames
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has renewed its broadcast rights agreement with America Movil, extending coverage of the Olympic Games and Youth Olympic Games from 2026 to 2032 across much of Latin America. This partnership, which began in 2014, will provide exclusive pay-TV and digital rights for several upcoming Games, including Milano Cortina 2026, Los Angeles 2028, French Alps 2030, and Brisbane 2032. The deal aims to increase visibility for winter sports and the Youth Olympic Games in a region with growing digital consumption and supports the IOC's sustainable distribution model.