International Olympic Committee permits Russian athletes to take part in the 2026 Olympic Games under specified terms. - International Olympic Committee permits Russian athletes to participate in the 2026 Olympic Games under certain terms
In the upcoming Winter Olympics in Italy, Russian and Belarusian athletes will be competing, but not as representatives of their countries. Due to the ongoing geopolitical tensions, several international sports federations have imposed restrictions on their participation.
The International Ski Federation (FIS) has decided not to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete in alpine skiing, ski jumping, cross-country skiing, Nordic combined, and ski mountaineering. This decision comes in contrast to the International Skating Union, which has allowed Russian athletes to compete in figure skating, speed skating, and short track, as well as ski mountaineering, under certain conditions for the qualifying events.
The international federations for bobsleigh, skeleton, and luge have taken a firm stance, banning Russian athletes from competing in the Cortina ice channel. The International Biathlon Union, however, has stated that neutral athletes will not be allowed to compete.
The Olympic Committee (IOC) has reportedly increased pressure to pave the way for the return of Russian and Belarusian athletes as neutral competitors. Despite this, the Winter Olympics in Italy will not play the national anthems of Russia and Belarus, and will prohibit the display of national symbols for athletes from these countries.
Russia's success in winter sports makes it one of the most successful nations in Olympic history. However, medals won by Russian and Belarusian athletes in the 2026 Winter Olympics will not be included in the official medal count.
Only a small number of athletes from Russia and Belarus are expected to participate in the Winter Olympics in Italy. Each international federation will decide on the eligibility of the individual athletes from Russia and Belarus, with the condition that they compete as neutrals, without representing their countries in team events.
This decision has sparked controversy, with some arguing that it unfairly punishes athletes for the actions of their governments, while others believe it is necessary to maintain the integrity of the games. Regardless of one's stance, it is clear that the Winter Olympics in Italy will be a unique event, marked by the absence of national representation for some of the world's top winter sports athletes.
