World Gymnastics has lifted all restrictions on Russian and Belarusian athletes, allowing them to return to international competitions under their national flags with immediate effect. This decision reverses a suspension policy that has been in place since March 2022 following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
The governing body defended the move on Tuesday, stating it is rooted in the principle of equal treatment for all athletes regardless of nationality and the true spirit of sport. World Gymnastics expressed its belief that sport and politics must remain separate and that competitions should serve as a neutral platform for unity, fairness, mutual respect, and solidarity.
The reversal applies to all disciplines governed by the body, including artistic, rhythmic, acrobatic, and aerobic gymnastics, as well as trampolining. Although athletes from Russia and Belarus were permitted to compete as neutral participants beginning in late 2024, they are now allowed to wear national colors and hear their anthems.
This action follows similar recent moves by United World Wrestling and World Aquatics, the latter of which ended its neutral status guidelines in April. Russia has traditionally been a strong presence in gymnastics, winning 10 medals, including two golds, at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics under the Russian Olympic Committee banner before being banned from the 2024 Paris Games.