Russian flags banned on 2026 Olympics - IOC
IOC bans Russian flags at 2026 Olympics (photo: olympics.com)
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has officially banned the display of the Russian flag and other state symbols of Russia during the 2026 Winter Olympic Games. The ban applies to both athletes and spectators in the stands, according to the IOC’s response to Sverigesradio.se (Radiosporten).
Complete isolation of aggressor symbols
The IOC letter clearly states that a strict ban on Russian flags and any other symbols associated with Russia will be enforced at Olympic venues in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo.
“The Russian flag and other symbols linked to Russia will be banned at the Olympic Games in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo,” the committee emphasized.
This decision applies not only to official delegations but also to spectators. Any attempts by fans to bring tricolor flags into the stadiums will be considered a violation of the rules.
Tour de Ski scandal as a catalyst
The move comes after an incident during the Tour de Ski cross-country races.
A group of supporters displaying Russian symbols was spotted in the stands, cheering for neutral skier Saveliy Korosteliov.
The athlete later admitted in a comment to Sportbladet that he saw the flags on the course and found it pleasant. The international community, however, reacted sharply.
Swedish skier Edwin Enger, in particular, called the situation unacceptable, emphasizing that the presence of state symbols during a war completely undermines the concept of neutrality.
Eligibility conditions and restrictions for neutral athletes
The 2026 Winter Olympics will take place from February 6 to 22. While some athletes are allowed to compete under a neutral flag, strict restrictions apply:
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Full ban on participation in team events;
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No Russian or Belarusian representatives at the opening ceremony;
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Results of such athletes will not count in the overall medal standings.
Earlier, IOC President Kirsty Coventry confirmed that even potential political ceasefires would not change these eligibility conditions, as they are based on recommendations adopted in 2023.
Earlier, we wrote about IOC decision on Russian participation in Olympics if peace agreement is signed.
