In a significant development for Russian athletes, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has delivered a judgment that could pave the way for their participation in the 2026 Winter Olympics. The court’s decision challenges the blanket ban on Russian athletes, implemented due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and mandates a review process for their participation as approved neutral athletes.
The ruling by CAS requires the International Luge Federation (FIL) to assess Russian athletes for Approved Neutral (AIN) status. This decision could potentially influence other sports federations, such as skiing’s governing body, as they prepare for the upcoming Winter Games in Milan-Cortina d’Ampezzo.
The partial upholding of appeals from the Russian luge federation and six athletes by CAS, however, does not immediately reinstate their ability to compete in international events. FIL argued against the participation of Russian athletes, citing security concerns that their inclusion could heighten risks of public or athlete-led incidents.
CAS clarified that while Russian athletes remain excluded from FIL competitions, those meeting the AIN criteria are no longer prohibited. This neutral status is contingent upon athletes not having publicly endorsed the military actions in Ukraine or being affiliated with military or state security organizations, as per International Olympic Committee guidelines.
Previously, some athletes from Russia and Belarus participated in last year’s Paris Summer Games under neutral status, without national symbols such as flags, anthems, or team colors.
In related news, CAS dismissed a separate appeal by Russian speed skater Daria Kachanova for neutral status from the International Skating Union. The court cited a report on Kachanova’s links to CSKA Moscow, a sports club under the Russian Ministry of Defense, as the basis for their decision.
For more information on the Winter Olympics, visit the AP Winter Olympics hub at https://apnews.com/hub/milan-cortina-2026-winter-olympics.
