Recent developments regarding the Georgian Olympic team have raised alarm, particularly with the upcoming Milan-Cortina Games. Reports reveal that six of the eight athletes on the team hold Russian passports, and the majority of their coaching staff is also Russian. Notably, Eteri Tutberidze, a prominent figure formerly involved with the Russian figure skating team, has taken charge of the Georgian squad after sanctions led her to leave her position in Russia. With a dual citizenship status likely including US nationality, Tutberidze's influence represents a troubling integration of Russian personnel within a team that is supposed to represent an independent Georgia.

The situation is exacerbated by the fact that the team is not exclusively represented by Georgian citizens, as athletes of Russian descent play significant roles. For instance, while Nika Egadze is the sole male competitor representing Georgia alone, his history of living in Moscow since childhood raises questions about his national allegiance. Additionally, Anastasia Gubanova, who has restricted knowledge of her Georgian roots, is set to compete—a situation that exemplifies the complexities faced by the Georgian team.

The presidency of Georgia has expressed concern over this increasing Russian presence in its sports representation, dubbing the team a "branch of the occupiers." This remark highlights the ongoing geopolitical tensions between Georgia and Russia, particularly in light of historical conflicts. Such a narrative not only affects the perception of the Olympic team but could also influence public sentiment towards sports funding and national pride as Georgia's identity faces challenges on the international stage.