Following discussions with the IOC, the International Swimming Federation (FINA) has confirmed a wide range of opportunities for athlete self-expression at the aquatics competitions of the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020. These opportunities for athletes to express their views will include:
- In the mixed zones, including when speaking to the media
- In the International Broadcast Centre (IBC) or the Main Media Centre (MMC), including when speaking to the media
- During press conferences in the venue or in the MMC
- During interviews
- At team meetings, subject to NOC conditions
- In traditional media or digital media
- Through social media channels, consistent with IOC and NOC social media guidelines
"FINA fully supports an athlete’s right to free speech. It is a fundamental aspect of democracy and such voice should not be suppressed, within the bounds of respect and dignity. Our athletes’ voices matter and should be heard," said FINA President Husain Al Musallam.
Consistent with FINA’s practice at all of its competitions, based on the FINA Code of Conduct, any political, religious or discriminatory statement or behaviour will remain strictly prohibited on the field of play, starting when the athlete leaves the call room or similar. Consistent with FINA's practice and the IOC's guidelines on the implementation of its Rule 50.2, political, religious or discriminatory statements during the medal ceremonies and on the medal podiums will also be prohibited.
"Athletes have the right to the privacy of the moment, to remain free of unnecessary distraction from the competition and preparation, with the pool deck remaining a sanctity for sport and nothing else. The pool deck is and must always remain a place of friendship and respect for the greater whole, not the individual," added Al Musallam.
"The same level of respect should be given to the podium. This moment celebrates the accomplishments of individuals/teams, their support teams, coaches, families and nations, who each and all deserve to cherish that moment without interference. It is a moment that commands respect and triumph for sporting results and should not be remembered by individual expression."
Fédération Internationale de Natation (FINA)
The Fédération Internationale de Natation, founded in 1908, is the governing body for aquatics worldwide. FINA's five discipline Swimming, Open Water Swimming, Diving, Water Polo and Artistic Swimming - are all included in the Olympic programme. High Diving made its first appearance in FINA events at the 2013 FINA World Championships. FINA counts 209 affiliated National Federations on the five continents and has its headquarters in Lausanne (SUI).
FINA COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT
FINA Office
Ch. de Bellevue 24a/24b
1005 Lausanne
SWITZERLAND
T: +41 21 310 47 10
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