ISU allowed Russians to participate in qualification for the Olympic Games in a neutral status

The International Skating Union (ISU) has allowed athletes from Russia and Belarus to participate in qualifying for the Olympic Games 2026 in Italy in a neutral status. This follows from the release of the union.

The decision applies to competitions in speed skating, figure skating and short track speed skating. At the same time, Russian figure skaters will not be allowed to the team tournament.

Thus, according to the ISU press service, one athlete (pair) in each discipline will be able to compete in the qualification tournaments among figure skaters. Candidates, as well as substitutes, must be sent to ISU no later than February 28, 2025.

It was reported on September 26 that ISU will consider the issue of admission of Russian figure skaters and speed skaters to international competitions. It was noted that it was necessary to take into account the possibility of selection for the Games for representatives of Russia and Belarus, suspended from competition.

March 1, 2022 ISU suspended Russian and Belarusian athletes from international competitions under the auspices of the organization. This decision was taken in accordance with the recommendations of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) not to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to participate in international competitions in connection with the special operation conducted by the Russian Federation to protect Donbas.