Olympic athletes must follow the Olympic Charter, rules from their International Federation (IF), and National Olympic Committee, focusing on fair play, anti-doping, and maintaining neutrality (no political protests on podiums) while adhering to specific event & village regulations like security, quiet hours, and uniform guidelines, all within a framework emphasizing unity and respect.

Core Principles & Governing Rules

Olympic Charter: The foundational document, setting out fundamental principles, rules, and statutes for the Olympic Movement, including eligibility (amateurism, though evolved), fair competition, and neutrality.

International Federations (IFs): Each sport's IF sets specific technical rules for competitions and manages qualifiers (e.g., FIFA for soccer, World Athletics).

National Olympic Committees (NOCs): Your country's NOC selects and enters athletes, ensuring they meet requirements and adhere to national & international rules.

Key Areas of Rules

Anti-Doping: Strict adherence to WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) codes is mandatory.

Eligibility: Must be a national of the country they represent; specific nationality rules apply.

Fair Play & Conduct: No discrimination (race, religion, politics). No political/religious protests on medal stands or ceremonies (Rule 50), but some forms of expression before competition might be allowed. Respect for Olympic symbols and properties.

Marketing & Sponsorship (Rule 40): Limits on personal advertising to protect official sponsors.

Sport-Specific Attire: Rules for uniforms, like bikini size in beach volleyball or trousers for male figure skaters.

During the Games (Olympic Village & Venues)

Residential Zones: Athletes live in the Village, follow security protocols, and respect quiet hours.

Logistics: Specific entry/exit dates, mandatory gym use, and mattress rules (yes, really!).

Departure: Athletes usually leave the Village within 48 hours of their last event/closing ceremony.

In essence, athletes must be clean, respectful, compliant with their sport's rules, and uphold the spirit of fair play, representing their nation under strict Olympic guidelines.