The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has advised removing all restrictions on Belarusian athletes participating in global competitions. This decision, announced on Thursday, entails no more conditions for Belarusian athletes and teams in events overseen by International Federations and international sports organizers. The IOC emphasized the necessity to navigate a complex geopolitical environment and maintain a values-based sporting platform that offers hope worldwide.
The IOC’s move aligns with the “Fit for the Future” initiative initiated by IOC president Kirsty Coventry in September 2025. This initiative reinforces athletes’ fundamental right to engage in sports and compete without political interference. The IOC stressed that athletes’ involvement in international competitions should not be hindered by their governments’ actions, even in times of conflict.
Since the initial introduction of protective restrictions in February 2022 and subsequent updates in March 2023, athletes holding Belarusian passports have participated in various international events as Individual Neutral Athletes (AINs). Notably, they competed in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. Looking ahead, the qualification period for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games and the Dolomiti Valtellina 2028 Winter Youth Olympic Games commences this summer.
Regarding Russia, the IOC highlighted a distinct situation. While the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) remains suspended pending review by the IOC Legal Affairs Commission, the National Olympic Committee of Belarus is in good standing and adheres to the Olympic Charter. Additionally, the IOC Executive Board announced a proposal in September 2025 to lift restrictions on youth athletes from Russia and Belarus in international youth events. This proposal would allow them to compete under their national flags, anthems, and team uniforms.
