World Aquatics Lifts Ban on Russian and Belarusian Athletes
World Aquatics has decided to allow athletes from Russia and Belarus to participate in its competitions without restrictions, with national flags and anthems.
TL;DR
- World Aquatics will allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete with their national flags and anthems.
- This lifts previous restrictions that required them to participate as neutral athletes.
- The organization aims to maintain sports as a space for unity and fair play.
- Ukraine has previously opposed the return of Russian athletes.
- The decision could influence the broader sports landscape and potential return to the 2028 Olympics.
- Russian and Belarusian athletes must pass anti-doping and security checks before returning to competition.