Russia moves closer to full Olympic return ahead of 2028 Los Angeles Games

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) took a significant step on Tuesday by provisionally lifting the suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee and recommending that international sports federations end the three-year vetting programme that required Russian athletes to undergo scrutiny before competing as neutrals. The decision was timed to align with the start of qualifying events for the 2028 Los Angeles Games and to ensure equal access for all athletes.

IOC President Kirsty Coventry, a two-time Olympic swimming gold medallist for Zimbabwe, said athletes should not be held accountable for their governments' actions. "I wouldn't be sitting here if I had to pay the price when my country was going through things and being sanctioned," she stated.

Ukrainian Sports Minister Matvii Bidnyi criticised the move, noting that the war has not changed and has worsened. "On this day, when all of Ukraine is in a day of mourning ... we don't understand it," he told the Associated Press.

The IOC reiterated its solidarity with Ukraine's Olympic community and continued financial support.

While the guidance is not binding, Russian Sports Minister Mikhail Degtyaryov welcomed it as a "green light" for international federations to restore athletes' rights. However, World Athletics maintained its ban, and FIFA and UEFA continue to exclude Russia from competitions like the World Cup and Champions League. World Aquatics lifted restrictions in April.

Russia's team in Los Angeles could be comparable in size to the 2021 Tokyo Games, where over 300 athletes won 71 medals. Only 32 athletes from Russia and Belarus competed as neutrals at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

To be approved as neutrals, athletes must demonstrate no links to state military or security agencies and not have publicly supported the war. The IOC will monitor social media posts.

Full participation under national flag and anthem has not yet been approved; a decision will be made later. Enhanced doping controls will also be required.