FIG expressed regret over the refusal of Russian gymnasts to participate in international competitions

On April 7, the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) expressed regret over the refusal of gymnasts from Russia to participate in international competitions in a neutral status.

"In accordance with the recommendations of the International Olympic Committee issued in 2023, FIG has implemented a strict AIN assessment procedure to allow neutral Russian and Belarusian gymnasts and support staff to return to FIG competitions," reads a statement posted on the organization's official website.

To participate in the competition, athletes from Russia and Belarus had to undergo a background check conducted by an external company. It is specified that the issue related to the AIN participants will be discussed at the next meeting of the FIG Executive Committee, which will be held on May 7-8, 2025.

On April 5, the Russian Gymnastics Federation announced that the Russian gymnasts who had received neutral status had refused to compete in international tournaments. The reason for the decision was the numerous unjustified and biased refusals by the FIG special committee to allow Russian gymnastics representatives to compete.

Oleg Belozerov, President of the Russian Gymnastics Federation, noted that he treats the decision with respect and understands what dictates it.