Kolobkov: Timing for Russias Return to Olympics Is Not Right Yet – The Chess Game Is Still in Progress

Olympic fencing champion and former Minister of Sports of Russia, **[Pavel Kolobkov](https://example.com/tags/25794-pavel-kolobkov/)**, shared his thoughts on a report from the Swedish outlet SVT, which stated that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has urged international winter sports federations to begin the process of allowing Russian athletes to qualify for the 2026 Olympic Games.

«I fully agree with Dmitry Guberniev regarding the IOC’s statements about our access to Olympic qualification. Moreover, the IOC has not yet lifted its recommendations. We need to stop reacting emotionally to every development. It’s not the right time; this chess game is still ongoing,» Kolobkov posted on his social media.

Earlier, Russian journalist Dmitry Guberniev remarked that some nations will resist until the end if Russia attempts to return to international competitions. He believes that representatives from Scandinavian countries are likely to deny Russian athletes visas.

The upcoming IOC session is set to take place in Athens, Greece, in March, where a new president of the organization will be elected on March 20.