IOC Lifts Ban On Belarusian Athletes Ahead Of LA28 Qualification
The International Olympic Committee has officially lifted all restrictions on Belarusian athletes, clearing the way for them to compete under their national flag and anthem in international competitions once again.
The decision, announced on Thursday, means Belarusian athletes and teams will now be eligible to participate freely in qualification events for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games after years of sanctions linked to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Belarus and Russia were both banned from several international sporting events after the war began, with Belarus accused of supporting Moscow by allowing its territory to be used during the invasion. Since 2023, athletes from both countries had only been allowed to compete as neutral athletes under strict conditions.
In its latest statement, the IOC said it “no longer recommends any restrictions on the participation of Belarusian athletes, including teams,” adding that Belarus’ National Olympic Committee remains “in good standing and complies with the Olympic Charter.”
The Olympic body also defended its position by insisting that athletes should not suffer because of political decisions made by governments.
“The IOC reaffirms that athletes’ participation in international competition should not be limited by the actions of their governments,” the statement said.
Belarus welcomed the decision, with the country’s National Olympic Committee thanking IOC president Kirsty Coventry for what it described as a “balanced and principled position.”
However, the decision does not apply to Russia. The Russian Olympic Committee remains suspended amid ongoing concerns over anti-doping investigations and legal disputes linked to the war in Ukraine.
Despite the IOC’s announcement, some sports federations are still refusing to readmit Belarusian athletes. World Athletics confirmed that its sanctions against Belarus and Russia will remain in place until there is “tangible movement towards peace negotiations.