World Aquatics Lifts Restrictions on Russian and Belarusian Athletes for Olympic Swimming

Policy Change Allows National Flags and Anthems World Aquatics has reversed its policy, allowing Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under their national flags and anthems in swimming events, marking the first such reinstatement in an Olympic sport since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

The organization oversees swimming, diving, and water polo. " Since the invasion of Ukraine, Russian and Belarusian athletes have had to be vetted and compete under neutral status. The tournament in question is the first time a Russian team has participated in an international team-sport competition since the war began in 2022.

Dmitry Mazepin noted that Russian and Belarusian athletes are now permitted to stage world and European events, adding, "This decision will be welcomed by the athletes.

Ukrainian Athlete Disqualification and Criticism Ukrainian swimmer Vladyslav Heraskevych was disqualified from competition after wearing his 'helmet of remembrance' during training at the Winter Olympics.

Heraskevych told the Guardian that the decision was 'unacceptable and disgraceful'. He said, "World Aquatics claims it can keep the conflict away from pools and competition venues. But of course, this does not apply to Ukrainian sports facilities and pools, which are constantly being struck by Russian missiles.

It does not apply to Ukrainian athletes, who are also dying in the war unleashed by Russia. " Heraskevych referenced Evgeny Rylov, who participated in a rally at Luzhniki Stadium alongside Putin in 2022, wearing a propagandistic 'Z' on his chest. He stated, "World Aquatics is trying to act as though none of this exists.

Heraskevych argued that restoring Russian flags and anthems provides a platform for propaganda linked to the war, stating, 'propaganda that is killing us, Ukrainians,' highlighting ongoing tensions from the conflict. " The Guardian reported these statements from Heraskevych.

Boycott and International Context Ukraine’s water polo players boycotted a World Cup match against a Russian team competing as neutral athletes on the day of World Aquatics’ decision.

The International Olympic Committee in December recommended removing restrictions on Russian and Belarusian athletes for international youth events and letting them compete under national flags. The International Olympic Committee required Russians to compete as neutral athletes at the Winter Olympics in February.

The International Paralympic Committee allowed Russians to compete under their own flag and anthem at their Games in March.

These developments provide context for World Aquatics' policy shift as of April 13, 2026.