August M
World Gymnastics has officially removed all remaining restrictions on Russian and Belarusian athletes, allowing them to compete under their national symbols for the first time since the invasion of Ukraine began in 2022.
The decision marks another significant shift in international sports policy, as global organizations continue debating how to handle Russian and Belarusian participation during the ongoing war, reports Kyiv Independent.
Restrictions removed
The organization’s Executive Committee announced on May 18 that all measures imposed against Russian and Belarusian athletes after February 2022 had been lifted with immediate effect.
According to a statement cited by the Kyiv Independent, the change restores full participation rights across every discipline governed by World Gymnastics.
The federation, previously known as the International Gymnastics Federation, oversees international competition in artistic gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics, acrobatics, aerobic gymnastics, and trampolining.
The move reverses sanctions introduced shortly after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Return to competition
Russian and Belarusian athletes were initially banned entirely from international gymnastics events in 2022.
The restrictions also covered national flags, anthems, and hosting rights connected to both countries.
In late 2024, some athletes from Russia and Belarus were permitted to return as neutral participants under strict conditions.
However, they were still prohibited from competing under national colors or official state symbols until the latest decision by World Gymnastics.
Wider sports debate
The issue of Russian participation has remained deeply divisive across international sport since the invasion began.
Ukraine and several allied countries have repeatedly argued that allowing Russian athletes to compete normally risks undermining efforts to isolate Moscow internationally.
At the same time, some sports federations and Olympic officials have increasingly supported reintegrating athletes who are not directly linked to military institutions or political activity.
Major organizations including the International Olympic Committee and International Paralympic Committee have gradually eased some restrictions in recent years.
Impact on Ukraine
Russia’s invasion has heavily affected Ukraine’s sporting community.
According to Ukrainian officials and sports organizations, hundreds of athletes and coaches have been killed since the war began, while sports facilities across the country have been damaged or destroyed during missile and drone attacks.
Despite the destruction, Ukrainian athletes have continued competing internationally throughout the war, often using global events to draw attention to the conflict and its impact on civilians.
Sources: Kyiv Independent, World Gymnastics
