Russian and Belarusian figure skaters will be allowed to return to international competitions for the upcoming 2026–27 season under a strict neutral status, the International Skating Union (ISU) announced Tuesday.
Under the new guidelines, athletes from both countries will compete without their national flags, anthems or any other state symbols. The ISU said the restrictions could be eased in the future if it “is satisfied that no safety or integrity issues arise.”
A decision regarding the return of Russian and Belarusian judges and officials to international events will be deferred until after the 2026–27 season concludes.
The ISU said it is acting on recommendations from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), which invited three figure skaters from Russia and Belarus to compete as neutrals at the 2026 Winter Games.
To qualify for international readmission, athletes must meet strict criteria, including passing background checks to verify they have no ties to their respective militaries or security services and have not publicly supported the war in Ukraine.
