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Russian Swimmers to Be Allowed to Compete with Flag and Anthem After Restrictions Dropped
Athletes from both countries must still clear four anti-doping tests and background checks before returning to World Aquatics events, the federation said.
- On Monday, World Aquatics announced it will allow senior Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under national flags and anthems, ending restrictions imposed following Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
- World Aquatics President Husain Al-Musallam stated the federation aimed to keep geopolitical conflict out of sports, following a gradual easing of bans that began with neutral status in September 2023.
- Reinstated athletes must pass four consecutive anti-doping tests and background checks, with the Aquatics Integrity Unit having already conducted more than 700 screenings under eligibility guidelines.
- Ukraine Minister of Youth and Sports Matvii Bidnyi condemned the decision as 'divorced from reality,' while the Ukrainian men's water polo team forfeited a match against 'Neutral Athletes B' in protest.
- This policy shift could accelerate the return of Russian athletes to international competition ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, as the federation considers hosting future championships in Russia.
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Today, World Swimming made a decision to allow athletes from Russia and Belarus to perform at their competitions without restrictions, with national flags and anthems.
·Belgrade, Serbia
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources91
Leaning Left22Leaning Right10Center25Last UpdatedBias Distribution44% Center
Bias Distribution
- 44% of the sources are Center
44% Center
L 39%
C 44%
R 17%
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