The IBU excluded the participation of neutral athletes in the qualification for the 2026 Olympics

The International Biathlon Union (IBU) has ruled out the participation of neutral athletes in the qualification for the 2026 Olympics. This was announced on August 28 on the organization's website.

"The rules of IBU events and competitions do not provide for the rule of participation of neutral athletes," the message says.

According to the organization, 186 of the 210 Olympic quotas for participation in the Olympics have already been distributed among the National Olympic Committees (NOCs).

It is specified that only athletes who are eligible to participate in IBU competitions and represent the NOC, but have not yet received quotas based on the results of the 2024/2025 World Cup/Nations Cup season, will be able to qualify.

"The IBU will be the last one to allow our athletes to compete"

Biathlete Alexander Povarnitsyn — about the chances of ending isolation, the results of the current season and the difficulties with shooting speed

June 11, Sports Director of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Keith McConnell called for work on the admission of Russians to tournaments. He expressed gratitude to those who allowed neutral athletes with Belarusian and Russian passports to participate in the competition.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.