Every Olympics, dozens of athletes represent countries in which they don’t live or train. They’re able to do this because of Rule 41 in the Olympic Charter. The rule creates guidelines for which nations an athlete can represent and how often athletes can change national representation. Some call this practice ‘country-swapping’ or ‘nation-swapping’, but the official term is a ‘transfer of allegiance’.
Athletes with multiple citizenships can choose who they represent in international competition. The United States often sees the most transfers because, unlike many other nations, America recognizes dual citizenship.
Some countries actually seek out athletes with the promise of citizenship. Some athletes choose country representation based on where they’re more likely to make the national team or secure sponsorship deals.
During the Winter Games, many countries are at a disadvantage due to a lack of snow. Some athletes use Rule 41 as a way to make the Olympics to support those countries that wouldn’t otherwise be represented.
