MINSK, 18 December (BelTA) – Every effort should be made to create conditions encouraging talented athletes to stay in Belarus, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko said at a session to discuss the development of summer sports on 18 December, BelTA informs.
“I warn you earnestly: God forbid even one talented athlete leaves the country. If this happens, all sports officials will be in the crosshairs. We will find out why these athletes left. We should not tie anyone up, but you should conclude a contract with every child (their parents). They grow up into champions here. Do they leave because of mismanagement here or because they are lured by bigger money abroad? If so, they should pay for that and this should be spelled out in the contract - pay for your training and go anywhere you want. We will use this money to train others,” the head of state said.
“I have been reiterating it for several years already. If you fail to deliver, you will be held accountable. This pertains to federations' chiefs, advisory boards, the National Olympic Committee officials and others,” Alexander Lukashenko warned.
