Olympic chiefs have indicated Russia could soon be allowed back into the Games – just 24 hours after FIFA president Gianni Infantino drew criticism for stating his desire to see a similar ban lifted in football.

Only 13 Russians will be competing as 'neutrals' at the Winter Games this month, with the nation outcasted by the Olympics in the wake of the Ukrainian invasion in 2022.

However, that situation could be thawing after International Olympic Committee president Kirsty Coventry stated a desire to see athletes separated from the actions of their governments. Although she did not mention the Russian exile directly, Coventry's comments were accepted as a move towards a return.

Speaking ahead of Friday's opening ceremony in Milan, Coventry said at the IOC Session: 'Throughout the campaign and in many of our conversations since, I have heard the same message from many of you. Focus on our core. We are a sports organisation. We understand politics and we know we don't operate in a vacuum. But our game is sport.'

She added: 'That means keeping sport a neutral ground. A place where every athlete can compete freely, without being held back by the politics or divisions of their governments.

'In a world that is increasingly divided, this principle matters more than ever. It is what allows the Olympic Games to remain a place of inspiration where the athletes of the world can come together and showcase the best of our humanity.'

Coventry's inference is sure to divide opinion, which would echo the response to Infantino's desire to see Russia's ongoing ban lifted in football. Ukraine sports minister Matvii Bidny branded the FIFA president 'irresponsible' and 'infantile'.

Following Coventry's remarks, Russian IOC member Shamil Tarpischev said relations between his nation and Olympic powerbrokers are improving.

'It was emphasised in her speech that the political component shouldn't play a role,' he told German media. 'Because sport is inspiration and the future. So far, everything is going smoothly and honorably. But we still have a lot of discussions to make.

'Compared to the Paris Games, it's much easier now. There's more understanding, and communication with IOC members isn't as tense.'