The Greek Olympic Committee (HOC) said on Wednesday it would not allow Vasileia Karachaliou, a top sailor from Greece, to switch nationalities and compete under the Portuguese flag.
Karachaliou, a former European champion and a world-class ILCA sailor, has been at odds with the Greek Olympic Committee and the national sailing federation for years.
“The (HOC) does not approve the participation of the athletes Vasileia Karachaliou – or any other Greek athlete for that matter – to compete at the Paris 2024 Olympics under the flag of another nation,” the HOC said in a statement.
“Whatever differences there are that can be solved through discussions are no reason for a change in nationality,” it said, adding the decision to stop her had been unanimous.
Karachaliou, 26, who competed under the Portuguese flag at this month’s World Championships in Texas, has been complaining about the lack of funding and support she has received from Greece to compete internationally.
Those who wish to change their nationality can do so for three years following their last Olympic appearance. However, this period can be reduced if special circumstances are met. In addition to the national Olympic committee, a change in nationality also needs approval from the sports’ federations and the International Olympic Committee.
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