Are Neutral Athletes from Russia Banned from Winter Qualifiers?

The upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics, scheduled for 6-22 February in Milan and Cortina, Italy, will not feature athletes from Russia and Belarus, following a decision by the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS). This means that Russian and Belarusian competitors will be barred from qualifying events for the Games, marking a significant stance amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

A decisive vote by the FIS has resulted in the exclusion of athletes from Russia and Belarus from qualification events for the 2026 Winter Olympics. This decision aligns with the broader context of international sports governing bodies reassessing participation rules for these nations against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. While the International Olympic Committee (IOC) had previously suggested that athletes from these countries could compete under a neutral flag, the final authority rests with individual sports federations, leading to the current situation.

Key takeaways

Russian and Belarusian athletes are barred from qualifying events for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
The decision was made by the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS).
In contrast, some Russian figure skaters have secured their spots but will compete as Individual Neutral Athletes (AINs).
The IOC had previously allowed for a neutral flag option, but federations maintain control over participation.
The Winter Paralympics will take place shortly after the Olympics, with different participation rules.

Timeline: how we got here

The decision regarding participation in the 2026 Winter Olympics has been shaped by significant events over the past few years:

February 2022: The invasion of Ukraine by Russia leads to widespread sanctions and bans across various sectors, including sports.
September 2022: The IOC indicates that Russian and Belarusian athletes may compete under a neutral flag at the 2026 Olympics, pending approval from individual sports federations.
October 2023: The FIS votes to exclude Russian and Belarusian athletes from qualification events for the Winter Olympics.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The FIS's recent vote marks a definitive measure excluding athletes from Russia and Belarus from the Olympic qualifier events. This decision underscores a firm stance by the sports community in response to geopolitical tensions. Although Russian figure skaters have qualified, they will still compete under AIN status, reflecting ongoing complexity in athlete participation rights.

What was already established

The IOC's earlier position allowed for potential participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes under neutral flags, as observed during the recent Paris Olympics. However, the final decision ultimately resides with individual federations, which has led to varying outcomes across different sports.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The exclusion of Russian and Belarusian athletes may resonate with UK audiences, particularly those supporting a unified stance against actions perceived as aggressive or unjust. This decision could influence public sentiment and consumer behaviour related to sponsorship, merchandise, and viewership of the Olympics.

Businesses and jobs

With the Olympics approaching, UK-based businesses involved in sports, tourism, and hospitality may see varying impacts. The absence of certain athletes can alter sponsorship deals and promotional strategies, while also influencing the economic flow related to the Games.

Policy and regulation

The UK government and sports authorities are likely to monitor the situation closely, as it reflects broader international relations that may affect funding, support for athletes, and diplomatic ties. Upcoming discussions and consultations around sports policy may address the implications of such exclusions.

Numbers that matter

15: The number of neutral Russian athletes who competed in the 2022 Summer Olympics.
17: The number of neutral Belarusian athletes who participated in the same event.
6: The start date of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina.
9: The total days of competition for the Winter Paralympics beginning on 6 March 2026.
2: The number of countries (Russia and Belarus) currently under scrutiny for their athletes' participation.

Definitions and jargon buster

AINs (Individual Neutral Athletes): Athletes with a Russian or Belarusian passport who compete without representing their country due to international bans.
IOC (International Olympic Committee): The governing body responsible for overseeing the Olympic Games and setting participation guidelines.
FIS (International Ski and Snowboard Federation): The governing body for skiing and snowboarding competitions globally.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, sports federations will need to clarify their positions on athlete participation in the lead-up to the Winter Olympics. Observers should watch for any appeals or changes to the current decisions regarding AINs.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As qualifying events unfold, the situation may evolve, particularly if political or diplomatic dynamics shift. Stakeholders should remain alert to potential changes in regulations and athlete eligibility for both the Winter Olympics and Paralympics.

Signals to watch

Decisions by other international sports federations regarding Russian and Belarusian athletes.
Public and governmental responses to the ongoing exclusion of these athletes.
Updates from the IOC on any future discussions regarding neutral athlete participation.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about updates from the IOC and sports federations regarding athlete participation.
Support athletes from your home country and keep track of their qualifying events.
Engage with sports communities and discussions surrounding the Olympics and Paralympics.

Don’t

Assume that decisions regarding athlete participation are final; stay aware of potential changes.
Disregard the broader implications of geopolitical issues on sports.
Overlook the importance of supporting athletes regardless of national affiliations.

Checklist

Verify eligibility of athletes and teams in the lead-up to the Olympics.
Follow qualifying events and results closely.
Understand the implications of sanctions on sports and athlete participation.
Monitor public sentiment and media coverage regarding the Olympics.
Stay engaged with sports community discussions online and offline.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the current exclusion of Russian and Belarusian athletes is definitive, the situation remains fluid. Changes in international relations or pressure from various stakeholders could alter participation rules. There is also the risk of appeals from athletes or federations that could challenge the current stance. Thus, ongoing monitoring of developments is essential.

Bottom line

The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina will proceed without Russian and Belarusian athletes in qualification events, reshaping the competitive landscape. As this situation develops, it reflects the complex interplay of sports, politics, and international relations. Stakeholders should prepare for possible changes and remain informed about the implications for both the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

FAQs

Will Russian and Belarusian athletes compete in the 2026 Winter Olympics?

No, Russian and Belarusian athletes will not be allowed to compete in qualification events for the 2026 Winter Olympics due to a vote by the International Ski and Snowboard Federation.

What is the AIN status for athletes?

AIN stands for Individual Neutral Athletes, referring to athletes with Russian or Belarusian passports competing without representing their countries due to bans.

What other events are affected by the current sanctions?

In addition to the Winter Olympics, the sanctions also affect the Winter Paralympics and various international competitions where these athletes may have otherwise participated.