IOC lifts ban on Russian athletes for LA 2028 Olympics

The International Olympic Committee has lifted its suspension on Russian athletes, allowing them to compete in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles under neutral status, following changes to its rules and the Russian Olympic Committee's compliance with new conditions.

By Christopher Devlin1 min read

The International Olympic Committee has lifted its suspension on Russian athletes, enabling their participation in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. This follows the IOC's decision to allow athletes to compete without being punished for their government's actions.

Russian athletes must now only adhere to the Olympic charter's values, replacing the prior vetting process that excluded those supporting the war in Ukraine. The Russian Anti-Doping Agency remains suspended due to past involvement in covering up test results from the 2014 Sochi Games.

The IOC has not yet decided whether Russia can display its flag or play its anthem at the Games. Individual sports bodies retain the right to determine whether Russian teams and anthems return before the 2028 event.