GENEVA, July 27. /TASS/. The world’s governing body of gymnastics sports, World Gymnastics, has urged against restrictions in regard to Russian athletes competing under the organizations’ sponsored tournaments and stresses that some competitions may allow exceptions in case of restrictions imposed by hosting countries, the press office of the organization announced on Monday.
"Executive Committee Clarification on the Implementation of the May 2026 Decision Regarding Russian and Belarusian Athletes. World Gymnastics reaffirms its firm belief that sport and politics should remain separate and that sporting events should continue to serve as neutral platforms promoting unity, fairness, mutual respect, and solidarity," the statement reads.
"During its meeting in May 2026, the Executive Committee decided to lift all restrictions on Russian and Belarusian athletes, in accordance with the principle of equal treatment for all participants, regardless of nationality, and in line with the fundamental values and spirit of sport. This approach is also consistent with the recommendations issued by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on 7 July," the statement continued.
"At the same time, the Executive Committee acknowledges the concerns that the immediate implementation of this decision may have raised, particularly in relation to potential government restrictions over which World Gymnastics has no control," according to the federation. "As a result, the situation was reassessed during the Executive Committee meeting held from 22 to 24 July 2026."
