- Joined
- Feb 9, 2014
There is still a chance though.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A89s94gprDM&feature=youtu.be&t=327
Lukashenko directly offered Putin and Kolobkov to take some (i.e. 4-5-6 places) russian skaters to represent Belorussia (where aren't any skaters at all). Judging by approving reaction of russian minister of sport - appearing of several new solid Belarus skaters next season is highly likely Also, I always envy China's audacity in that sense - who can practically triple their amount of skaters by introducing all that Taipei or Hong Kong skaters as separate countries athletes - notwithstanding the fact that they are just provinces of China. If they can do it - why Russia can't?
Trust me (Hongkonger speaking here), if China could have its way, it would rather everybody represent China even if it means fewer spots overall The fact that Taiwan (aka Chinese Taipei in sports) and Hong Kong have separate international recognition irks them greatly. Anyway, AFAIK there are separate sporting bodies in Taiwan and Hong Kong (to China), although I'm not sure how tight communications are between them.