Russia Calls World Athletics Ban ‘Discriminatory’ After Extension of Athlete ExclusionThe Russian Athletics Federation has expressed disappointment over World Athletics’ decision to maintain its ban on Russian and Belarusian athletes, describing the move as discriminatory and unjustified.
World Athletics announced on Friday that the sanctions imposed on athletes from both countries would remain in effect, extending restrictions that have kept them out of international competition since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Reacting to the decision on Saturday, Russian athletics officials argued that the continued exclusion of their athletes was unfair and prevented competitors from showcasing their talents on the global stage despite having no direct involvement in political or military matters.The federation said it had hoped World Athletics would reconsider its position after several years of sanctions and allow athletes to return to international events under a neutral status, similar to arrangements adopted by some other sporting bodies.
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe has consistently maintained that the sanctions remain necessary in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The governing body has repeatedly stated that its position is aimed at protecting the integrity of international athletics and ensuring the safety and fairness of competitions.
Russian and Belarusian athletes have been barred from competing under their national flags at major World Athletics events since the outbreak of the war. The restrictions have affected participation in world championships, international meetings and qualification pathways for major global competitions.
The latest decision means athletes from both countries will continue to miss key international events, including preparations for upcoming global championships.
The issue remains one of the most contentious topics in world sport, with supporters of the ban arguing that sporting sanctions are an appropriate response to the conflict, while critics insist that athletes should not be punished for actions taken by governments.
Despite the continued restrictions, Russian sports authorities have indicated that they will continue engaging with international sporting bodies in pursuit of a pathway that could eventually lead to the reinstatement of their athletes.
For now, however, World Athletics has reaffirmed its position, ensuring that the suspension of Russian and Belarusian athletes will remain in force until further notice.
