Ukraine appeal IOC decision to reinstate Russia

Core Impact Points

• The IOC suspended the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) in 2023 due to the war in Ukraine, but lifted the ban on July 7, 2026.
• Ukraine's National Olympic Committee has launched an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport against the IOC's decision.
• Russian and Belarusian athletes competed as neutrals at the 2024 Olympics in Paris and 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina.
• The IOC's decision opens the door for Russian athletes to compete for their country at the 2028 Olympic Games.
• The reinstatement of Russia to international competition is the latest step in the country's return to global sports events.
• The IOC previously recommended in December 2025 that federations readmit Russian and Belarusian Under-23 athletes.