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World Aquatics has permitted Russia and Belarus to compete in team events from 2026 under a neutral flag

Russian teams will be able to compete in international aquatic championships from January 1, 2026 under a neutral flag, according to new eligibility rules adopted by governing body World Aquatics. The same rule applies to teams from Russia’s neighbor, Belarus.

The two countries were banned from major aquatic sporting events following the escalation of the Ukraine conflict in 2022. Participation was later reopened on a limited basis, allowing select athletes to compete individually as neutrals.

This week’s decision expands the existing regulations, meaning Russian and Belarusian athletes can take part in team events, including water polo, provided they meet neutrality requirements and receive approval from the Aquatics Integrity Unit.

Teams and athletes must comply with conditions prohibiting national flags, anthems and symbols, and will undergo background checks to confirm they have no ties to state or military organizations. The revision marks the first time Russian and Belarusian teams will be eligible to rejoin international aquatic competitions since the ban was imposed.

The framework also extends to continental championships, allowing neutral athletes and teams from both countries to compete in European tournaments alongside world-level events.

In a parallel move, the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), the world governing body for equestrian sport, will permit Russian and Belarusian riders to take part in team events under a neutral flag from January 2026, Equnews International reported on Wednesday.

Russian officials have repeatedly accused Western nations of politicizing sport and pressuring federations to exclude their athletes.

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Despite restrictions, Russian competitors have continued to achieve strong results. In August, swimmers from Russia won 18 medals, including six golds, in individual events at the 2025 World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, finishing fourth overall.