According to the russian newsoutlet Tass, The Executive Committee of the International Gymnastics Federation, known as World Gymnastics, has announced a complete reversal of restrictions against Russian athletes, allowing them to compete under their national flag and anthem once again. This decision marks a full reinstatement for Russian gymnasts across all disciplines, two years after initial sanctions were implemented.
The move permits Russian athletes to participate in all five disciplines governed by the Russian Gymnastics Federation:
- Artistic gymnastics
- Rhythmic gymnastics
- Trampoline
- Sports acrobatics
- Sports aerobics
The lifting of restrictions follows a period of evolving policies by World Gymnastics. In March 2022, the federation initially suspended Russian and Belarusian athletes from all competitions due to the conflict in Ukraine.
These measures were later eased, allowing athletes from both nations to compete under a neutral status, though participation in team events remained prohibited. Since the beginning of 2024, Russian and Belarusian athletes have been eligible to compete as neutrals.
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The decision by World Gymnastics was announced by the Russian Gymnastics Federation’s press service and reflects a broader trend among international sports federations. Several other governing bodies have similarly moved to lift or ease their own restrictions on Russian athletes.
Among these, federations overseeing sports such as judo, sambo, taekwondo, kickboxing, muay thai, boxing, MMA, and wrestling have previously lifted their respective bans. Notably, World Aquatics also permits Russian athletes to compete under their national flag.
Furthermore, junior Russian athletes are allowed unrestricted participation in international events across disciplines including weightlifting, fencing, curling, volleyball, triathlon, and modern pentathlon.
The full reinstatement by World Gymnastics means Russian gymnasts can now represent their country with national symbols at international events, concluding a period of significant limitations on their participation.
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Sources: tass.com
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