Quick Thoughts

1. Kudos to UEFA and FIFA for removing Russia from the U21 Euros qualifying. It might sound too harsh, but after they launched an unprovoked peacetime invasion of a neighboring country Russia shouldn't be allowed to compete internationally at least through the end of this year. Sports and politics should usually be kept separate but a key part of international sporting competition is peace (it's called *peaceful* international sporting competition for a reason) and if you can't abide by that then you shouldn't be able to compete. Simple as that. 
2. It's my opinion that FIBA (finally) did the right thing. Montenegro has replaced Russia in Group A of September's EuroBasket tournament. I've been wanting this to happen for a month or so (and by "wanting this to happen" I mean starting a Change.org petition).  
3. Thank you, FINA. Melbourne has replaced the Russian city of Kazan as the host city for December's short-course world championships. This is another thing I was wanting to happen back when Russia was tabbed to host- and Melbourne was on my list of potential hosting sites, as well. If you invade a neighboring country- and during peacetime, no less- you shouldn't really be hosting top athletes from other countries. 
4. And on a related note, I won't have any French Open updates on my blog. This is due entirely to them letting Russian athletes compete (and letting them compete under the Russian flag). 

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