Olympia: Mao pin without repercussions

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has decided not to punish Athlete duo Bao Shanju and Zhong Tianshi. The Olympic gold medalists of the women’s team sprint track cycling had each worn a pin depicting the head of The People’s Republic founder Mao Zedong at the award ceremony on Monday. According to Article 50 of the Olympic Charter, however, political symbols are prohibited during competitions. The IOC demands strict neutrality, especially during award ceremonies. The Chinese team management has assured “that this will not happen again”, an IOC spokesman said on Wednesday. grz