Lausanne, May 7, 2026
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has lifted sanctions against Belarus, allowing its athletes to compete under their national flag, while maintaining the suspension of Russia's National Olympic Committee.
Policy Shift for Belarus
The IOC, under President Kirsty Coventry, announced the decision to revoke restrictions on Belarusian athletes, marking a departure from its previous stance. The organization stated that athletes' participation in international competitions "should not be restricted by the actions of their governments, including involvement in a war or conflict." This move comes after Belarusian and Russian athletes were only permitted to compete as neutral individuals at the 2024 Paris Olympics and the upcoming 2026 Winter Games in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo.
The IOC emphasized the need to clarify its position ahead of the qualification events for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. The decision aims to provide clarity for athletes and federations as they prepare for the next Olympic cycle.