Russians could compete at L.A. Games: IOC

Russia applauds provisional lifting of suspension

Published Jul 07, 2026  •  Last updated 2 hours ago  •  1 minute read

The International Olympic Committee has provisionally lifted its ban on Russia. Photo by Getty Images

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The Russians are back in the Olympics, sort of.

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Russian athletes could be allowed to compete at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles after the International Olympic Committee provisionally lifted its suspension.

The IOC suspended the Russian Olympic Committee in 2023 after Russia invaded Ukraine. But it says the ban is “no longer applicable” and that Russians can compete as long as they “meet relevant anti-doping requirements.”

It said to “address the lack of confidence in the global sporting community relating to the return of Russian athletes to international competition,” those athletes must be part of a recognized doping testing program.

The IOC, however, hasn’t decided if Russia can display its flag, colours or anthem at the Olympics, saying that decision will come “at an appropriate time.” The IOC added it still won’t organize events in Russia or invite Russian government officials to its events.

Some Russians have competed

Russian athletes have competed at both the 2024 Paris Games and this year’s Winter Olympics in Milan, but as neutrals. Only 32 athletes from Russia and Belarus, a Russian ally, competed at the 2024 Paris Olympics as approved neutrals, and won five medals. The Russian team had more than 300 athletes at the 2021 Tokyo Games, winning 71 medals.

Russia lauds decision

Russia applauded the decision of the IOC.

“The IOC is sending a clear signal: the Olympic movement must remain free from politics,” Russian sports minister Mikhail Degtyarev said on social media, adding that Russia is planning to participate in qualifiers for the 2028 Olympics.

But the IOC says it still “strongly condemns” Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, although it “recognizes that an athlete’s participation in international competition should not be limited by the involvement of their government in a war or conflict”.

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