Russian esports athletes will not participate in the qualifications for the IESF World Esports Championship, according to a statement made by the Russian Esports Federation (RESF).
As stated in the official announcement from the RESF, the reason for this decision was "the unlawful actions of the secretariat, which, contrary to the charter and decisions of governing bodies, opposes the participation of Russian athletes."
"In April, just a short time before the qualification schedule was finalized, the IESF secretariat finally proposed that the RESF sign an agreement to participate. This is a standard document signed by all participating federations. <...> However, for the RESF, there were non-standard and uncoordinated provisions: a clause stating that the RESF must agree that its athletes will participate in a neutral status without the right to display the flag.
The RESF signed only the standard version without additional clauses and insisted on receiving the exact wording of the "decision" adopted by the board in January. However, the IESF secretariat stated that the participation agreement was not signed, and on this basis, Russian athletes will not be allowed to participate in the World Championship. <...>
Thus, the RESF will not withdraw from the competitions but will also not waive the flag and anthem."
The IESF World Esports Championship 2024 takes place from November 11 to 19. The event will be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The total prize pool for the event, which includes the main and women's tournaments, will amount to $400,000.