Oleg Matytsin claims that "further development of sports is practically impossible" without Russia ©Getty Images

Russian Sports Minister Oleg Matytsin has claimed that "further development of sports is practically impossible" without the country's involvement and stated that sport is an important factor for the federation's security.

At the Olympic Assembly in Moscow, he spoke out against the wide-ranging ban on Russian athletes from the sporting community in response to the invasion of Ukraine.

"Without Russia, the further development of sports is practically impossible, or it will be inefficient, will not be as effective as it would be if Russia again participated in international competitions," Matytsin said, as reported by Russia's official state news agency TASS.

"Therefore, the international aspect must continue to be given priority, in view of the fact that the [Olympic Games] 2024 is just around the corner, the next year is the holding of qualifying competitions."

As it stands, Russian and Belarusian athletes will miss Paris 2024 qualifying events in many sports but some are considering rethinking the sanctions.

Outgoing chair of the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee Susanne Lyons has proposed to allow Russians to participate in the French capital.

International Canoe Federation President Thomas Konietzko has also suggested the body will review its policy to allow athletes to compete.

"Thanks to the leaders of the federations for their work and common victories," Matytsin added.

Russian Olympic Committee President Stanislav Pozdnyakov states the organisation will look for an
Russian Olympic Committee President Stanislav Pozdnyakov states the organisation will look for an "alternative solution" if Russians cannot qualify for Paris 2024 ©Getty Images

"Preparation for the Olympic Games took place during a difficult period in the fight against coronavirus.

"We can be proud of the victories of our athletes at the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

"This is an important contribution to, I’m not afraid of this word, ensuring security of our country.

"Today is the day of security workers, I want to congratulate them on it.

"Sport is an important factor in the security of our country."

Matytsin is currently President of the International University Sports Federation but stepped aside from the position in March 2021, with Leonz Eder coming in as Acting President.

Russian Olympic Committee President Stanislav Pozdnyakov was unanimously re-elected this week and spoke of an "alternative scenario" if the country's athletes are unable to qualify for Paris 2024.

"We will be implementing an Olympic sports programme aimed at creating an athletic base and the training of the youth," he said, as reported by TASS.