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1h ago

IOC Lifts Belarus Athlete Ban as Russia Stays Suspended

Implementation now rests with sport federations.

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Olympic rings in front of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), during an Executive Board meeting at the Olympic House in Lausanne, Switzerland, May 6, 2026. REUTERS/Denis Balibouse/File Photo

Overview

  • The IOC Executive Board on Thursday, May 7, said it no longer recommends any restrictions on Belarusian athletes and teams.
  • The change lets Belarusians compete under their flag and anthem and enter qualifying events for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics that open this summer.
  • Russia remains restricted as the Russian Olympic Committee stays suspended and the IOC cited WADA’s review of the Russian anti-doping system.
  • Policies will differ by sport because federations control entry, with World Athletics keeping its ban and World Aquatics already allowing national symbols.
  • Reactions split, with Belarus welcoming the move, Ukraine objecting, and a Belarusian Olympic medalist facing a new doping case that could increase scrutiny.