UK among nations to support Russia and Belarus ban

New culture secretary Lucy Frazer chaired the summit earlier this month

The United Kingdom is among 30 countries that have pledged support to an ongoing ban on Russian and Belarusian athletes competing in international sporting events amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The International Olympic Council is "exploring a pathway" for athletes from the two nations to compete as neutrals.

UK Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer says the IOC's plans are "not credible".

Representatives from countries including France, Germany, Poland, the United States and Canada attended the 10 February summit, which was chaired by Frazer.

In a statement, Frazer said: "This coalition of nations has supported Ukraine on multiple fronts and we will continue to do so.

"Today we are setting out our serious concerns with the International Olympic Committee's plans which could see a route back into elite athletics for Russia and Belarus."

More to follow.