Olympics: India leaves Chinese sponsors ahead of Tokyo Games | Olympic issues
The Olympic Committee in India says the decision is in line with the government’s view of the conflict between the two countries last year.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has dismissed Chinese athlete Li-Ning as an ally in expressing his views on the country’s government and for its athletes to wear illegal attire in Tokyo.
Chinese companies have been in trouble in India since 20 Indian soldiers were killed in clashes with Chinese troops during the Himalayan border dispute last year.
The IOA at the time decided to reconsider its relationship with Li-Ning, which was to end Tokyo’s game.
He unveiled the Olympic weapons six days ago but said Tuesday the council was out of respect for “people’s views in the country”.
“We know how our fans are feeling and … we have decided to move away from the partnership we have with our suppliers,” IOA President Narinder Batra and Secretary General Rajeev Mehta said in a statement.
“Our players, our coaches and assistants have dressed us in casual clothes.”
Indian representatives in Li-Ning could not be reached for comment.
Speaking in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said: “We hope India will see international relations fairly and equitably, and avoid political interference.”
The IOA said it did not want the issue of uniform manufacturers to be disrupted.
“We want our athletes to be able to exercise and compete without answering questions about clothing,” he added.
“So far, they have all been affected by the epidemic last year and a quarter, and we want them not to be disturbed.”
The IOA said it was led by the sports ministry to make the decision.
“The ministry and the rest were on the same page,” IOA chief Batra, who also heads the International Organization for Migration (FIH), told Reuters by telephone.
IOA is rushing to find a new agent.
“The kits are ready, it’s just a logo. We are looking for more helpers but time is limited, ”added Batra.
