World Gymnastics allows Russia and Belarus to compete under national flags
World Gymnastics has lifted all restrictions on Russian and Belarusian athletes with immediate effect, allowing them to return to international competition under their national flags following an executive committee meeting in Egypt.
Competitors from the two nations were initially banned from international events in March 2022 following the invasion of Ukraine.
They were subsequently granted permission to participate as neutral athletes towards the end of 2024.
Reversal spans all gymnastics disciplines
The governing body confirmed the major policy shift in a public statement released after their weekend meetings.
This comprehensive reversal applies across all five athletic disciplines overseen by the organisation.
- Artistic gymnastics
- Rhythmic gymnastics
- Acrobatic gymnastics
- Aerobic gymnastics
- Trampolining
A return for a traditional powerhouse
Historically, the Eastern European nation has been considered one of the most dominant forces in the sport.
Competing under the Russian Olympic Committee banner, their squad secured two gold medals and ten overall podium finishes at the delayed Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
However, the global suspension meant their elite gymnasts were entirely excluded from the recent Paris 2024 Games.
Wider sporting trend emerges
This latest development mirrors a growing trend among international sporting federations regarding competitor eligibility.
World Aquatics made a similar decision to reinstate competitors under their national colours earlier this April.
The International Judo Federation also lifted its own suspension last November.
Furthermore, the International Paralympic Committee removed its restrictions last year to clear the path for participation in the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics.