sports
IOC Lifts Russian Olympic Committee Suspension
The International Olympic Committee ended a suspension that had barred the Russian Olympic Committee since October 2023. Russian athletes may now seek to compete under their national flag at the 2028 Games if they meet anti-doping rules.
Jul 7, 11:12 AM·1m read3 sources
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The International Olympic Committee provisionally lifted the suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee on Tuesday. The decision followed a review by the IOC's legal affairs commission. Officials found that the Russian Olympic Committee had expelled all regional sports organisations operating in territories under Ukrainian jurisdiction.
"The ROC confirmed that it does not, and will not, conduct any activities in these territories," the IOC stated.
Russian athletes remain subject to strict anti-doping requirements. They must participate in a national anti-doping programme overseen by the International Testing Agency rather than Russian authorities. Multiple tests are required before any competitor can return to international events.
Individual sports federations will set the testing timeframes. If the Russian Anti-Doping Agency stays non-compliant with World Anti-Doping Agency standards by 2028, the IOC will require independent testing for all qualified Russian competitors.
The IOC said its condemnation of Russia's invasion of Ukraine remains unchanged. It reaffirmed solidarity with Ukrainian athletes through a dedicated support fund. The organisation will not stage events on Russian soil and will not invite Russian government or state officials.
The question of whether Russian athletes may display national colours, flag or anthem at the Games will be decided later. The IOC will continue monitoring any Russian Olympic Committee activities in Ukrainian-controlled territories and may impose additional measures if concerns arise.
