Lausanne, Switzerland — The International Olympic Committee (IOC) advised sports bodies to conclude a three-year vetting program for Russian athletes ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics qualifying events. This guidance follows the IOC’s earlier statement regarding the participation of athletes from Belarus. The IOC emphasized its continued support for Ukraine’s Olympic community.
A provisional lifting of the Russian Olympic Committee’s suspension began in October 2023. The original suspension stemmed from the Russian Olympic body’s inclusion of regional sports councils from territories occupied in Ukraine. These conditions no longer apply, according to the IOC.
Athlete Participation:
- 32 Russians and Belarusians competed neutrally at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
- They secured five medals.
- In contrast, Russia sent over 300 athletes to Tokyo 2021, winning 71 medals.
The IOC has not approved the participation of Russian athletes with their national flag and anthem yet. The decision will come at an appropriate time, according to their statement.
Upcoming Competitions: The next Olympic event is the 2026 Youth Summer Games, slated to begin October 31, in Dakar, Senegal.
The IOC is addressing global concerns about Russia’s return to international sports. Russian athletes must undergo regular doping controls and participate in an accredited testing program.
The IOC stated they would refrain from hosting events in Russia or inviting Russian officials to events.