IOC Restores Belarus Flag Status, Maintains Russia Suspension for 2028 Qualifiers

The International Olympic Committee has announced that athletes from Belarus can once more participate under their country’s flag, rolling back limits that were introduced in relation to the war in Ukraine.

At the same time, the IOC said Russia will continue to be suspended from Olympic competition, citing ongoing issues that include doping matters and the war.

According to the committee, competitors should not be punished for decisions made by their governments. It also pointed out that Belarusian athletes had already taken part as neutral entrants without any reported problems.

The update comes as qualification events for the 2028 Olympic cycle get underway, with Russia’s Olympic standing still being assessed.