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> Many critics point to the fact that Russian teams were indeed banned after the invasion of Ukraine, but according to Lappartient, there is no legal basis for such measures against Israel. “The sanctions against Russia weren't imposed simply because it was a country at war. If that were the standard, many more countries would be punished today. The Russian invasion of Ukraine took place during the Olympic Truce, a resolution unanimously approved by the United Nations. At the time, we at the UCI saw it as a violation of that ceasefire. That's why sanctions were imposed.”
> The current reason for Russia's suspension isn't exactly the same. It's also because the Russian Olympic Committee has included areas that are internationally recognized by the UN as part of Ukraine. By doing so, it violates the Olympic Charter, which clearly states that countries are recognized as they are internationally recognized by the UN. Of course, people say today: Russia is sanctioned and other countries aren't. But legally speaking, there's a difference. Although that's sometimes difficult to explain on the street.”
> According to Lappartient, the crucial fact is that Israel has not formally annexed any Palestinian territory. Yet, calls for a boycott persist, most recently from the Bologna city council, which called for Israel-Premier Tech to be banned from participating in the Giro dell'Emilia. However, the Frenchman warns of the dangers of such measures.
> We must ensure that teams aren't misused to spread a specific message. The Spanish government wanted us to exclude Israel-Premier Tech. But on what legal basis? Moreover, it would be contrary to Olympic values. If you ban a team for political reasons today, the next will follow tomorrow. There's no end in sight.
> Nevertheless, Lappartient is also aware of how the participation of the Israeli formation and related demonstrations could hinder the continuation of races. "Sylvan Adams is here, and of course we will speak. I think it's important to look for solutions for next year. We have to be realistic: there are, at the very least, problems surrounding the races in Spain. I was already in contact with him during the Vuelta. I suggested removing Israel from the jersey. And I know this was also a proposal from the riders themselves, to relieve the pressure. I will talk to him about it, but I won't preempt what we'll discuss."