Swimming body lifts curbs on Russia, allows flag and anthem

World Aquatics has decided to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete without restrictions and under their national flags and anthems , marking a major policy shift ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics .

The move ends earlier requirements that athletes be vetted and compete as neutral participants , and makes swimming the first major Olympic sport to fully restore Russia’s competitive status. The restrictions had been imposed following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which led to Russia and Belarus being excluded from events such as the world championships. Limited participation as neutrals was allowed from 2023, with rules gradually eased since.

“Senior athletes with Belarusian or Russian sport nationality will be permitted to compete in World Aquatics events in the same way as their counterparts, with their respective uniforms, flags and anthems,” the body said in a statement, noting that similar relaxations had earlier been extended to junior athletes.

World Aquatics President Husain Al Musallam said the decision aims to ensure that sport remains a platform for peaceful international competition .

The move, however, has drawn strong criticism from Ukraine. Minister of Youth and Sports Matvii Bidnyi said restoring Russia’s national symbols undermines fairness and respect, adding that Ukrainian athletes continue to train under wartime conditions .

Ukraine has consistently opposed Russia’s return to global sport. Its men’s water polo team forfeited a World Cup match against Russian opponents in Malta, resulting in a 5-0 default win for Russia. Ukrainian media said the boycott was linked to the participation of Russian teams even under neutral status.

Russian Sports Minister Mikhail Degtyaryov welcomed the decision, calling it a step towards restoring international sporting ties , and said discussions with World Aquatics leadership had taken place earlier this year.

Despite the easing of restrictions, World Aquatics said athletes will still undergo anti-doping tests and background checks , though details of the screening process remain unclear.

While the decision currently applies only to World Aquatics events, including the world championships , it could influence broader Olympic policy. The International Olympic Committee has so far maintained a neutral status requirement for senior competitions and has not yet responded to the latest move, though it has eased rules for youth events.