The Universal Right to Sport: Contemporary Challenges in International Sports Events

It is currently a difficult time for Russian sport, as it comes under external pressure and attempts to isolate it. There have been some flagrant examples of unsporting behaviour. These include bans extended to Russian Paralympians, tennis players, footballers, chess players and even e-sports athletes. The mass suspension of Russian athletes may continue for some time to come and lead to their exclusion from the Olympic Games and other international competitions. Discrimination, suspension and various kinds of restrictions not only violate the rights of athletes, but also their human right to work. This is clearly a threat to the fundamental principles of sport. What does the immediate future hold for Russian sport, and what role might law play in its fate? What are the main issues in relation to ensuring people’s right to sport? How and when will Russian sport be reintegrated in the international arena?