The International Olympic Committee has provisionally lifted the suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee, clearing the way for Russian athletes to compete at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The decision ends an effective ban imposed in October 2023 following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, during which Russian athletes were barred from most international competitions or allowed only as neutrals under strict vetting.
Conditions of the provisional lifting
The IOC stated that the provisional lifting was granted after the ROC demonstrated it does not operate in disputed territories and ensures athletes commit to promoting a peaceful society. However, the IOC stressed that the display of the Russian flag, anthem, and colours remains suspended pending a final decision. IOC President Kirsty Coventry said: "We made it clear that we wanted to ensure that all athletes have the possibility to compete at the Olympic Games and not be held responsible for their government's actions."
Impact on future events
Coventry confirmed that while international federations may decide to host events in Russia, the IOC itself will not stage any competitions there nor invite Russian government officials to its events. Russian athletes will compete as neutrals at the 2028 Olympics, similar to the 2024 Paris Games where 15 Russian and 18 Belarusian athletes participated under neutral status.
Programme changes for 2030 Winter Olympics
Separately, the IOC finalised the programme for the 2030 Winter Olympics in the French Alps, introducing synchronized figure skating (Synchro9) and ski and snowboard freeride for the first time. Nordic Combined, a sport present since 1924, has been removed. The IOC said these changes ensure gender parity with equal athlete quota places.
