IOC lifts bans on Russia and Belarus

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced the removal of restrictions that previously prohibited young athletes from Russia and Belarus from participating in international competitions in Olympic sports, including team disciplines. Now they will be able to compete with national flags and anthems without additional checks.

Russian Sports Minister Mikhail Degtyaryov confirmed the news: "All restrictions on the participation of young athletes from Russia and Belarus in international competitions in Olympic sports, including team disciplines, have been lifted." This decision also applies to the 2026 Youth Olympic Games to be held in Dakar.

Earlier in 2023, the IOC introduced temporary restrictions to prevent athletes from Russia and Belarus from participating in international events due to organizational and political disagreements. The new decision aims to restore equal conditions for all participants.

Context

At the beginning of 2023, the IOC introduced restrictions to limit the participation of athletes from Russia and Belarus in international competitions, in response to sanctions and political disagreements. Lifting the bans restores previous rights.