Russia returns with flags: European Gymnastics decision sparks backlash
European Gymnastics lifts all sanctions on Russia and Belarus (photo: Getty Images)
The European Gymnastics Federation (European Gymnastics) has fully lifted all sanctions on Russian and Belarusian athletes. In the near future, Russians will be able to compete under their national flags, according to the official website of European Gymnastics.
How the European federation voted
The decision to fully reinstate representatives of Russia and Belarus was made following an extraordinary online meeting of the organization’s Executive Committee held on May 21, 2026.
After that, a 48-hour electronic vote was conducted.
The continental federation explained that it is simply aligning itself with the decision of the global governing body, World Gymnastics.
The latter lifted its precautionary measures that had been in place since the start of the full-scale invasion.
“European Gymnastics will implement the decision of World Gymnastics to remove all restrictions, as the special rules have expired.
This decision will be ratified at an Extraordinary General Assembly in the near future,” the statement said.
In which tournaments Russians will appear with their anthem
The new lifting of restrictions will apply to all sports disciplines governed by the organization.
This includes artistic and rhythmic gymnastics, trampoline jumping, as well as acrobatics and aerobics.
Russian and Belarusian athletes have been granted the right to compete without any restrictions — including the use of flags and national anthems.
This will take effect at the upcoming continental championships this year.
The European Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships in Varna, Bulgaria, will begin on May 27, while the men’s and women’s artistic gymnastics championships will be held in Zagreb in August.
How world sport is lifting restrictions on aggressor countries
Ahead of this decision, the global organization World Gymnastics allowed Russian and Belarusian representatives to compete fully in all international events under its umbrella.
Effectively, sports officials have completely ignored Russia’s military aggression.
It should be noted that in early May, the International Olympic Committee recommended that associations lift restrictions only on Belarus.
At the same time, no such guidance was issued regarding Russia, but gymnastics federations chose to act ahead of further decisions.
