Protest in press room not podium, IOC tells athletes

BERLIN (Reuters) - Athletes at the Winter Olympics may be punished for making statements on the podium against Russia's anti-gay laws or human rights record but can do so at news conferences without fear of sanction, the IOC said.

Thomas Bach, president of the International Olympic Committee, explained ahead of next month's Sochi Games that under the Olympic Charter political protests and demonstrations within venues are not allowed.