Kuwait to Compete Under National Flag after IOC Agreement

Kuwait told the International Olympic Committee (IOC) today it’s political interference in sport institutions will end.

Kuwait has been suspended from the IOC since 2010. The IOC said in May Kuwaiti athletes could participate at the games, but would compete and march in the opening ceremony under the Olympic flag.

IOC spokeswoman Sandrine Tonge said Monday the suspension was “conditionally lifted” after Kuwait ruler Sheik Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah pledged autonomy for the country’s Olympic committee and promised new legislation for institutions governing sports.

They will be allowed to hoist their national flag and have the Kuwaiti National Anthem playing alongside it.

Kuwait is sending 11 athletes to the London 2012 Olympics which start on July 27.