Flag, anthem restrictions dropped for Russian, Belarusian swimmers
Author: Al Jazeera StaffPublished on: April 13, 2026Country: Russia
Sports

Russian and Belarusian athletes will now be allowed to compete under their national flags at international swimming and aquatic sports events, following a decision by World Aquatics. This lifting of restrictions comes after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Athletes must pass at least four consecutive anti-doping controls before participating. World Aquatics President Husain al-Musallam stated that the organization aims to ensure competitions remain peaceful gatherings for all athletes.
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