OREANDA-NEWS Residents of Russia and Belarus have been banned from participating in the Boston Marathon in 2022 against the background of a special operation on the territory of Ukraine. This was reported by representatives of the Boston Athletics Association on the official website of the sports organization.

According to the statement, Russians and Belarusians who have registered for the marathon and now live in one of these two countries are being withdrawn from the competition «until further notice». The organizers said they would «make reasonable attempts» to return the contributions to the athletes. At the same time, citizens of Russia and Belarus who are not residents of these countries will be able to participate in the marathon in a neutral status — without a flag and national symbols.

«Like many people around the world, we are horrified and outraged by what we saw and learned from the reports from Ukraine. We believe that running is a global sport, and therefore we must do everything possible to demonstrate our support to the people of Ukraine», commented Tom Grylk, President and Executive Director of the association.

Ukrainians who have applied to participate in the Boston Marathon, but will not be able to come and take part in the race, will either be included in the number of participants in the competition next year, or they will be refunded the money for the contribution.

The Boston Marathon was first held in 1897 — traditionally, competitions are held on the third Monday of April. This year's race will take place on April 18.