The Decision: What Changed?

In a landmark decision announced during a meeting in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, the World Turn Federation (formerly known as FIG) has officially lifted all restrictions on Russian and Belarusian gymnasts competing under their national flags and anthems. The announcement, made public on May 18, 2026, marks a significant shift in the federation’s stance on athletes from both countries, which have been under sanctions since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

The decision means that gymnasts from Russia and Belarus will no longer be required to compete as “individual neutral athletes” (INAs)—a status that stripped them of national symbols and required them to disclose no ties to their national federations or Olympic committees. Instead, they will now be able to represent their countries in full, including wearing national uniforms, marching under their flags, and hearing their national anthems during medal ceremonies.

Context: Why Now?

The World Turn Federation’s decision comes amid a broader trend of international sports bodies reconsidering their sanctions against Russian and Belarusian athletes. Since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and numerous other federations—including World Aquatics (swimming) and World Athletics (track and field)—imposed restrictions on athletes from both countries, barring them from competing under national symbols.

However, in recent months, several federations have begun to ease these restrictions. In April 2026, World Aquatics announced that Russian and Belarusian swimmers would be allowed to compete under their national flags and anthems, a decision that set a precedent for other sports. The IOC, too, has taken steps to lift some sanctions, though restrictions on Russian athletes remain in place for certain events.

What This Means for Gymnasts

The return of national symbols is more than just a symbolic gesture—it carries significant psychological and practical implications for athletes who have spent years competing under neutral conditions. For many, the ability to represent their country openly is a long-awaited relief.

“Competing as a neutral athlete is isolating,” said a source close to the Russian Turn Federation. “It removes the connection to your homeland, your fans, and your history. This decision restores that connection.”

Practically, the change means gymnasts will no longer have to navigate the bureaucratic hurdles of competing as INAs, such as proving they have no ties to their national federations. They will also be able to train and compete under the full support of their national teams, including coaching staff and technical delegations.

However, the decision does not automatically grant Russian gymnasts participation in all international events. Some competitions, particularly those organized by the IOC or other federations that have not yet lifted their own sanctions, may still impose restrictions. Athletes will need to verify eligibility on a case-by-case basis.

The Broader Implications: Sports and Diplomacy

The World Turn Federation’s decision reflects the complex interplay between sports, politics, and global diplomacy. While the sanctions were initially imposed to protest Russia’s actions in Ukraine, the lifting of restrictions raises questions about the role of sports in international relations.

Critics argue that allowing Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under national symbols without addressing the underlying geopolitical issues sends mixed messages. Others contend that sports should remain a space for unity and competition, separate from political conflicts.

“The issue is not about the athletes,” said a spokesperson for the International Gymnastics Federation. “It’s about the principles that sports organizations stand for. We believe that athletes should be judged on their performance, not their nationality.”

This debate is likely to continue as other sports federations weigh whether to follow suit. The International Gymnastics Federation’s decision may put pressure on organizations like World Athletics or FIFA to reconsider their own policies.

What’s Next for Russian and Belarusian Gymnasts?

With the restrictions lifted, Russian and Belarusian gymnasts are now free to focus on their performances at upcoming competitions. The next major event on the horizon is the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships, scheduled for October 2026 in Antwerp, Belgium. This will be the first major test for the new policy, as gymnasts from both countries will compete under their national flags.

In addition to the World Championships, Russian and Belarusian athletes are expected to participate in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, though their eligibility for team events may still be subject to further review by the IOC.

For fans, the change means a return to the familiar sights and sounds of national pride at gymnastics competitions. The national anthems, flags, and team cheers will once again be part of the experience, adding an emotional layer to the sport.

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