Russian athlete Dmitri Nedelin: "I know athletes will be accepted last"

Russian runner Dmitri Nedelin made important statements following the decision by World Athletics to extend the ban on Russian athletes. Stating that the return of Russian athletes to the international stage will be delayed, Nedelin expressed that this situation seriously affects an athlete's motivation. He emphasized that goals becoming dependent not only on individual performance but also on uncontrollable external circumstances creates a psychological burden. Noting that some athletes from other sports branches have started competing in a neutral status or with full authorization, the athlete added that this process is progressing much slower for athletics. Nedelin stated that he has now accepted the reality that athletes will be the last branch to be admitted to international organizations and that it is necessary not to have unrealistic expectations.

The athlete states that he feels lucky to be able to participate in races held abroad, even if in different statuses. He expresses that thanks to the arrival of strong foreign athletes at local organizations held in Russia, he has not been completely detached from the international competitive atmosphere, and this situation somewhat reduces the feeling of deficiency. He emphasizes that even if he is not at the forefront of the elite athletes in races, he believes he has the performance to surpass most of them, and this situation does not bother him. He even adds that the invitation of very high-level athletes to the country by race organizers makes a significant contribution to the development of local athletes. He states that by focusing on his own development, he continues to show all the effort he can.

However, the reality that putting in a massive effort to pass the qualifying standard in the Olympics might not be enough deeply affects the athlete. The possibility that even if he achieves the required degree, his chance to participate in the Olympics might have disappeared due to international rules and sanctions, creates great uncertainty among athletes. The stress caused by this absence and the lack of any guarantee makes it almost impossible for athletes to make future plans. Still, Nedelin believes that doing what they can and continuing to run on the track is more valuable than doing nothing. He states that he tries to stay mentally strong by focusing only on the factors under his control, namely individual form and preparation processes.

Nedelin also explained that the VFLA management provided great support during the process of being included in the international testing pool. He stated that in meetings with the administrators, his needs as an athlete were evaluated, and this situation was a very critical turning point for him. He emphasizes that if Russian athletes are granted participation permission, even in a neutral status, in the future, doping test procedures at the international level should not cause any problems. Therefore, he states that it is essential to be regularly subjected to doping tests by foreign officials during training camps and competitions held abroad.

Drawing attention to the fact that the majority of Russian athletes are dependent on centrally planned calendars and camps, Nedelin added that he adopts a very different approach in this regard. Instead of remaining dependent on the central system, he stands out as one of the only athletes who individually participates in foreign races and high-altitude camps on his own initiative. He states that having the opportunity to compete and train on the same field with foreign opponents increases his international experience. He emphasizes that despite all these political and administrative difficulties, he has not lost his passion for the sport of athletics and will continue to stay on the tracks. With his words, he summarizes that this determined attitude creates a model that can inspire other Russian athletes who want to continue their careers.