Russians and Belarusians allowed to compete with flags – Full list of events
European Aquatics eases restrictions for Russian and Belarusian athletes (photo: Getty Images)
The European Swimming Federation has significantly relaxed restrictions for athletes from Russia and Belarus. Young athletes are now allowed to fully participate in international tournaments under their national symbols, according to European Aquatics.
Return of national symbols at the junior level
European Aquatics officially updated the status of Russian and Belarusian athletes competing in junior and youth categories.
According to the decision published on the organization’s website, young athletes from the aggressor countries are now allowed to use national flags, uniforms, and anthems during competitions.
Importantly, the previously mandatory verification of personal data has been removed for this age group.
Now, junior athletes with Russian or Belarusian passports can participate in tournaments under the full federation protocol, just like representatives of other countries.
Status of adult athletes and new guidelines
For adult athletes, rules remain stricter.
According to updated World Aquatics recommendations as of February 1, 2026, adult Russians and Belarusians can compete only as “neutral” athletes.
To be allowed to participate in individual or team events, they must meet several criteria:
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No connections to law enforcement or armed forces
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Public disavowal of military actions
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Successful completion of a special check to obtain neutral status
Competition rules and anti-doping measures
The regulations emphasize that any international tournaments under the federation held on Russian territory remain prohibited.
If qualifying events for World Championships or the Olympics are held in conflict zones, a special technical representative will monitor compliance with World Aquatics rules.
Additionally, World Aquatics retains the right to conduct independent athlete testing. Anti-doping measures at tournaments can be conducted without involving local national anti-doping agencies.
Trend in world sports
The decision by European Aquatics is part of a broader process of easing sanctions based on IOC recommendations.
Currently, the situation across different sports is as follows:
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Taekwondo, sambo, judo – full access for athletes under national flags in all age groups
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Chess, fencing, volleyball – national symbols allowed only at the junior level
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Aquatics – flags and anthems return for juniors and youth from February 1, 2026; adult athletes compete as neutrals
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Hockey – sanctions against Russian and Belarusian teams remain in force, including at the junior level
