The head coach of the Russian synchronized swimming team, Tatyana Pokrovskaya, responded to the news about the admission of Russians to competitions under a neutral status in a conversation with “SE”.
“We saw and heard yesterday's news. We are very glad that there is such a thaw. God willing, it will continue further. We will now discuss what neutral status means and how it works. But we are already very pleased. We are opening up!” said Pokrovskaya to “SE”.
On November 20, the International Swimming Federation (World Aquatics) made changes to the criteria for admitting athletes from Russia and Belarus to international competitions under a neutral status. Now, Russians and Belarusians who meet the admission criteria are allowed to participate in tournaments for swimming, open water swimming, synchronized swimming, and diving in all disciplines. Water polo remains prohibited.