IOC lifts restrictions on Russian athletes’ participation in international competitions
The IOC's position means that each international federation will decide independently whether to allow Russians to compete and under what conditions. The IOC recommendations that had been in place since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine are no longer in effect. Accordingly, athletes from these countries may return to competition under national symbols and may even host international competitions.
At the same time, a decision on whether Russians will participate in the Olympic Games under their own anthem, flag and other symbols will be made later.
The IOC also temporarily reinstated the Russian Olympic Committee's rights. This means the ban on holding competitions in Russia has been lifted, and each federation will now decide on the issue separately.
"The IOC has to navigate the complex realities and consequences of the current geopolitical context. Amidst growing global instability and conflict, the IOC must uphold its mission to preserve a values-based and truly global sporting platform that provides hope to the world," the statement said.
Key points of the IOC decision:
Background
As Rubryka reported, on February 16, 2026, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi enacted a decision by the National Security and Defense Council to impose sanctions on 10 Russian athletes who support aggression against Ukraine and visited temporarily occupied territories.
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- July, 08
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9 of July 2026
