The article addresses a significant controversy within the realm of sports, specifically regarding the participation of athletes from aggressor states in upcoming Olympic Games. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has sparked widespread discussions by advocating for the inclusion of so-called 'neutral athletes,' leading to a considerable backlash from various stakeholders. In Latvia, the sentiment towards the IOC's decisions is predominantly negative, influenced by public opinion, political discourse, and contributions from prominent figures such as President Edgars Rinkēvičs, who has voiced the nation's clear stance against the participation of these athletes.

The situation has escalated to the level of national political discourse, with the Saeima debating proposed legislative responses to the IOC's actions. There is an observable polarization within public opinion, with many expressing frustration at the perceived leniency towards athletes associated with regimes that have been deemed aggressive in global contexts. Conspiracy theories have also proliferated on social media platforms, reflecting the distrust and dissatisfaction among the populace regarding the IOC's rationale and the legitimacy of its decisions in the background of the ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Amidst the mounting controversy, IOC President Kirsty Coventry visited Cortina early on a Thursday before the start of a significant event, likely as an effort to mitigate the backlash and engage with various stakeholders. This visit underscores the urgency and severity of the issue at hand, reflecting the IOC's awareness of the gravity of dissent surrounding its policies on athlete eligibility from conflicting nations. The implications of this situation extend beyond the immediate implications for the sport of skeleton to encompass broader discussions about sportsmanship, international diplomacy, and the ethical responsibilities of sporting organizations in light of political conflicts.