Australia is standing by its diplomatic boycott of the Beijing Olympics but an expert says attending wouldn’t have ever been easy.

The boycott was announced in line with the US, where President Biden cited “crimes against humanity in Xinjiang, and other human rights abuses”.

Sports Diplomacy Alliance founder Dr Stuart Murray says it would have been difficult for diplomats to obtain visas to enter China.

“It was kind of impossible to get into China anyway,” he told Joe Hildebrand. “China wasn’t doling out visas for diplomats, heads of state.

“There were certain countries, friendly countries such as Russia and Venezuela, the usual suspects…

“We took a stand, it’s a bold position, it’s actually part of a bigger story, … the attitude we have toward China.

“It’ll be fascinating to watch, that’s for sure.”

Press PLAY below to hear the full interview 

Image: Getty