The International Skating Union partially lifted the suspension of Russia and Belarus

The Council of the International Skating Union (ISU) has allowed athletes from Russia and Belarus to compete in international competitions in neutral status starting in the 2026/2027 season.

This is reported by the ISU.

The decision applies to all ISU-sanctioned tournaments and international competitions in the 2026/2027 season. Russian and Belarusian athletes will compete without state symbols – without flags, anthems and national uniforms.

Only athletes who meet the requirements for neutral status will be allowed to participate. If the organization finds evidence of a violation of these requirements, the athlete will be disqualified.

At the same time, the ISU will not allow military personnel, representatives of the security forces of Russia and Belarus, as well as persons who have actively participated in hostilities against Ukraine or publicly supported the war since February 2022, to participate.

The union explained that it had partially overturned the suspension decision, which had been in effect since March 2022. The ISU noted that it had taken into account changes in the Olympic movement and decisions by other international sports federations.

The ISU also emphasized that it continues to condemn armed conflicts and support Ukrainian athletes. The organization has funded assistance to Ukrainian skaters through a development program, supported the Figure Skating Federation of Ukraine, and implemented a program to assist athletes who were forced to leave their homes. The ISU Council is currently considering the next phase of this support.

As previously reported, the International Fencing Federation allowed athletes from Russia and Belarus to once again compete in tournaments under national flags and with the performance of national anthems.

As a reminder, the International Ice Hockey Federation partially lifted restrictions on Belarus and allowed three national teams to participate in international tournaments.