The International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) confirmed on Wednesday that athletes, coaches and officials from Russia and Belarus may again compete this season under an approved neutral status, provided they do not display any symbols of national identity.
FIS said athletes, coaches and officials from the two countries “may be granted access to FIS competitions provided that they sign a declaration of neutrality based on a set of principles established by FIS,” while warning that sanctions can be imposed for breaches. Participation is limited to individual events only, and “no country symbols — such as flags, anthems, or uniforms — should be displayed,” the federation added.
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The decision follows a December Court of Arbitration for Sport ruling that overturned a nearly four-year ban on Russian skiers during the war in Ukraine, allowing them back into World Cup competition in Alpine, cross-country and freestyle skiing, as well as snowboarding, as they seek qualification for the Milan Cortina Olympics in February.
The FIS ruling council has renewed its neutral-athlete policy for the winter season beginning next month. Even with eligibility restored, Russian athletes and team officials are still expected to encounter visa difficulties when travelling to some European countries that host World Cup races.
(With AP inputs)
Published on Sep 02, 2026