No way back: Russia, Belarus remain banned from biathlon
Russians and Belarusians remain excluded from competitions for another season (photo: IBU)
The International Biathlon Union (IBU) has decided not to reinstate Russia's and Belarus's national federations. Athletes from these countries will remain excluded from international competitions throughout the entire 2026/27 season, regardless of their status, according to the Biathlon Federation of Ukraine.
IBU Congress vote results
The resolution was passed at the 17th IBU Congress, held from September 17 to 20 in Berchtesgaden, Germany. The vote on the future of representatives from Russia and Belarus took place on Friday, September 18.
To return to competition, the IBU established strict criteria, including a complete rejection of support for the war against Ukraine. Athletes and officials must also have no ties whatsoever to the armed forces or security services of Russia and Belarus.
Russian Biathlon Union's deception attempt, final ban
In June, the Russian Biathlon Union submitted documents to the IBU claiming that it had fully complied with the requirements. However, the international organization's Executive Board examined the report in detail and determined that the criteria had not been met.
This means Russian and Belarusian biathletes have missed the entire preparation period and will not be allowed to compete in the 2026/27 World Cup season, even under a neutral flag.
Previously, it was expected that the issue would not be put up for discussion at all.
