Alisher Usmanov shows his commitment to the fundamental principles of Olympism

The International Fencing Federation (FIE) has suspended its membership of SportAccord. This was confirmed in a letter sent by Alisher Usmanov, FIE President, to Marius Vizer, President of SportAccord.

Mr. Usmanov’s letter cites Marius Vizer’s position towards the IOC as the reason for suspending its membership, saying that the SportAccord President has caused harm to international federations and has not taken their interests into account. He expresses his firm disagreement with Mr. Vizer’s contentious views and with the form and content of the accusations made in an earlier speech directed towards the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and its President, Thomas Bach.

Alisher Usmanov adds that the FIE could re-join SportAccord upon the establishment of constructive dialogue between SportAccord and the IOC, and if the association issues an official apology to Thomas Bach.

Commenting on the matter, Alisher Usmanov said: "In line with the principles of the Olympic movement, which are based on honesty and transparency, I believe that Mr. Vizer should re-assess his relations with the IOC and the international sporting federations and determine the principles for future co-operation. I would be happy to assist in any way possible to resolve these fundamental disagreements and establish constructive dialogue."

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