Sport Politics Country 2026-04-14T04:07:56+00:00

Russian Athletes Allowed to Compete Under National Flag and Anthem

World Aquatics has lifted restrictions on Russian and Belarusian athletes, allowing them to compete without a neutral status and use national symbols. The decision has drawn condemnation from Ukraine.


Russian Athletes Allowed to Compete Under National Flag and Anthem

Russian swimmers, divers, and water polo players will be able to compete without restrictions and with their national flag and anthem. The decision by the governing body World Aquatics marks a significant shift in how a high-profile sport treats Russia heading towards the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games and has drawn condemnation from Ukraine. World Aquatics announced it will remove the restrictions that required Russian and Belarusian athletes to undergo a verification process and compete as neutrals.