September 05, (THEWILL) – Russian and Belarusian swimmers will be allowed to take part in international competitions as neutrals after swimming’s global governing body, World Aquatics, lifted its ban on athletes from both countries.
The swimmers had been barred from competing since Russia invaded Ukraine 18 months ago. But World Aquatics said that following “extensive consultation”, it had “unanimously” agreed on criteria that will enable Russian and Belarusian athletes to “participate in future competitions as neutral competitors.”
The move brings World Aquatics in line with a recommendation made by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) earlier this year to gradually reintegrate Russian and Belarusian athletes into international sport. Under the new guidelines, swimmers from Russia and Belarus will only be able to enter individual events, with a maximum of one per country per event. They will also be barred from speaking to the media.
World Aquatics said research showed 67% of international athletes would support the reintegration of Russians and Belarusians, provided they respect the conditions. Since the IOC set out its position, several other sports federations have decided to allow athletes from Russia and Belarus to resume competing.
The development means swimmers from the two countries will now be able to attempt to qualify for next year’s Olympic Games in Paris.
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Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
