COVID positive athletes being released from isolation too early, terrible quarantine conditions, and inedible meals: the Beijing Olympics have become a mess. With political tensions and concern about COVID policies, China is facing heat for its handling of the Olympics.

This year’s winter Olympics began on February 4th, in Beijing, China. Although the Opening Ceremony went smoothly, things quickly went downhill. Athletes are getting confusing information regarding COVID protocol. Polish speed skater Natalia Maliszewska tested positive for COVID, but was let out of quarantine a day before the 500 meters. Then, just a few hours before the start of her event, she tested positive again and re-entered quarantine. 

“My heart and my mind can’t take this anymore,” tweeted Natalia Malizewska about the Olympics. Athletes are quartered in small rooms with little room to continue training. The isolation has started to affect the mental mindsets of athletes like Jukka Jalonena. 

COVID is not the only concern of these athletes, though. The IOC has failed to provide complete meals for the athletes. Russian athlete Valeria Vasnetsova says she has lost a lot of weight and can even see her bones. Everyday, athletes eat the same food for all three meals.

The food has little nutritional value and is definitely not a good choice for athletes who need to spend long days in competition and training. Athletes like Vasnetsova say they have little energy left and can barely get themselves out of bed. 

The IOC has received many complaints from athletes and coaches regarding these difficult conditions. They are trying to respond by providing larger rooms and more training equipment for participants. Athletes will hopefully soon see more change.