World Gymnastics has announced the immediate lifting of all restrictions on Russian and Belarusian athletes, allowing them to compete under their national flags once again.
This decision reverses a suspension policy in place since March 2022, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The sport’s governing body defended its move, stating it is rooted in the principle of equal treatment and the “true spirit of sport”.
In a statement to Reuters, World Gymnastics said: “The Executive Committee’s decision to lift all restrictions imposed on Russian and Belarusian athletes is based on the principle of equal treatment for all athletes regardless of nationality.”
It added that “sport and politics must remain separate and that unity and solidarity should prevail at all sporting events.”
This means gymnasts from Russia and Belarus can now wear their national colours and hear their anthems at international events. Previously, they were barred until late 2024, when they could compete as neutral participants.
The decision applies to all disciplines, including artistic, rhythmic, acrobatic, aerobic gymnastics, and trampolining.
The move mirrors recent decisions by other international federations, including United World Wrestling and World Aquatics.
Russian and Belarusian athletes were also allowed to compete under their own national flag at the Winter Paralympics earlier this year.
A combined total of 10 athletes from the two countries participated in the Games, although the decision to allow them to compete was criticised by several nations and led to the opening and closing ceremonies being boycotted.
The UK Government joined the boycott to protest against the decision.
“We strongly oppose the decision of the International Paralympic Committee to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under their own flags at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games,” a UK Government spokesperson said.
“We have been clear that the Russian and Belarusian states should not be represented in international sport while the barbaric full-scale invasion of Ukraine is ongoing.
“Therefore, no Government Ministers or officials will attend the Opening or Closing Ceremonies of the Paralympics.”
Russia has historically been a powerhouse in gymnastics, winning 10 medals overall at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics under the Russian Olympic Committee banner.
