More than a dozen esports federations have supported the UESF's protest and opposed the permission for Russian esports players to use their flag and anthem at IESF events.
In a joint statement, 14 federations, including Ukraine, Armenia, Belgium, Canada, the Netherlands, Wales, Finland, France, Iceland, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, and Sweden, called for a review of the decision made in a closed meeting concerning Russian players.
[...] In this joint press release, we announce our collective intention to explore ways to reverse this appalling decision. At the very least, we demand that the IESF adhere to the recommendations set out by the Executive Board of the International Olympic Committee.We collectively strive to develop international esports in line with common values of respect, fairness, and global unity. This decision, contrary to these fundamental principles, makes us reconsider our engagement and participation in IESF. We will not stand by when a decision promoting division and disrespect tarnishes the esports community. We will always vote for peace, not networking or power.
On our part, we will take serious and targeted measures to rectify this situation and protect the values we cherish. We call on all member federations and esports enthusiasts to express their disagreement with this shameful decision and to stand in solidarity with Ukraine.UESF
In a separate statement, the Ukrainian Esports Federation also plans to consider leaving the IESF at an emergency meeting.
Given the vote held this year, we see in the decision not only manipulation by some organization leaders but also the vested interest of the IESF president - Vlad Marinescu, who met with a representative of the Russian FCS on the eve of the vote.[...]
It was precisely this decision, along with recommendations from the Ministry, that became the main reasons for withdrawing from the World Championship in the Romanian city of Iași. This very difficult decision for everyone was supported by athletes who expressed a clear civic stance, despite having a high chance of becoming competition medalists. We are proud of them and thank them for their support! Having the names of Ukrainian Heroes defending our freedom on our jerseys, we have no moral right to tarnish their honor and continue to participate in competitions of an organization that tolerates war.
We also plan to hold an emergency meeting to consider leaving the IESF. We cannot be part of an organization that does not adhere to the basic principles of fairness and respect for the territorial integrity of its members.UESF
If other countries join in boycotting tournaments and leaving IESF structures, the already questionable reputation of the international federation may suffer even more.
Source: Players
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