ISU Allows Russian Athletes to Compete as Neutral

The International Skating Union (ISU) has announced that Russian and Belarusian athletes will be allowed to compete in international competitions as 'neutral athletes' starting from the 2026/27 season.The ISU had previously made an exception for the Milano 2026 Winter Olympics qualifiers, but this exemption did not extend beyond the qualification rounds.

From the start of the 2026/27 season, the decision to ban athletes from Russia and Belarus from competitions has been partially lifted. These athletes will be able to participate in ISU events and international competitions as 'neutral athletes', provided they do not carry national flags, national equipment, or national anthems.

Russian and Belarusian athletes' coaches and technical support staff will also be allowed to accompany them, provided they undergo the same eligibility assessment. The competition's quota limits will not discriminate based on nationality, and the number of neutral athletes will be determined by objective criteria based on performance, ranking, and results.