World Aquatics will allow athletes from Russia and Belarus to compete in events without restrictions, including the use of their national flags and anthems. The governing body announced Monday it is removing vetting requirements previously in place, which had mandated athletes compete under neutral status.
The change extends a previous relaxation of rules for junior athletes to now include senior competitors. Athletes from both countries had been banned from international competition following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, but were later permitted to compete as neutrals starting in September 2023.
This decision marks a further easing of restrictions on athletes from Russia and Belarus by international sports organizations. The move has already drawn criticism and triggered outrage from Ukraine.