Russia’s Olympic Suspension Lifted Provisionally, Ahead of Los Angeles 2028
The decision comes amid continuing debate across international sport over Russia’s return to competition.
No longer applicable
Russian athletes could compete under their national flag at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) provisionally lifted the suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee, ending a ban imposed following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The IOC confirmed that the suspension introduced in 2023 was “no longer applicable”, clearing the way for Russian athletes to return to international competition, provided they meet all relevant anti-doping requirements.
However, the governing body said no decision has yet been made on whether Russian athletes will be permitted to compete under the country’s flag, colours and national anthem at the 2028 Games.
The IOC added that it would continue its existing measures against Russia, including not organising Olympic events in the country or inviting Russian government and state officials to IOC events.
Russian athletes previously competed as neutral athletes at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and the Milan Winter Olympics.
Only 32 athletes from Russia and Belarus were approved to compete in Paris, where they won a combined five medals.
The participation marked a significant reduction from the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, when Russia sent more than 300 athletes and finished the Games with 71 medals.
Standing condemnation
Russia welcomed the IOC’s latest decision, describing it as a step towards separating sport from politics.
“The IOC is sending a clear signal: the Olympic movement must remain free from politics,” Russian Sports Minister Mikhail Degtyarev said on Telegram, adding that Russia intends to enter qualification events for the Los Angeles Games.
Despite lifting the suspension, the IOC reiterated its condemnation of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
It said it continues to oppose the war but believes an athlete’s opportunity to compete internationally should not automatically be restricted because of the actions of their government.
The decision comes amid continuing debate across international sport over Russia’s return to competition.
In May, World Athletics rejected an IOC recommendation to lift restrictions preventing Belarusian athletes and teams from competing under their national flag.
The IOC has not announced when it will decide whether Russia will compete under its national symbols at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.