Full Breakdown
Eligibility of Individual Neutral Athletes for Milano Cortina 2026
11/28/2025, 12:11:17 PM
Overview of Individual Neutral Athletes (AINs)
As of November 27, 2025, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has confirmed the eligibility of Individual Neutral Athletes (AINs) for the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games. AINs are athletes holding Belarusian or Russian passports who have been invited to compete under strict eligibility conditions established by the IOC. These conditions were initially set for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and will similarly apply to the upcoming Winter Games.
Approved Athletes
The IOC has approved three AINs in the figure skating category for the Milano Cortina 2026 Games: Petr Gummenik and Adeliia Petrosian from Russia, and Viktoriya Safonova from Belarus. Gummenik secured his spot by winning the International Skating Union’s “Skate to Milano” Olympic qualifier in Beijing, while Petrosian also excelled in her qualifying event. Safonova, despite placing fourth, was still invited to participate.
Eligibility Review Process
The Individual Neutral Athlete Eligibility Review Panel (AINERP) is responsible for evaluating the eligibility of AINs and their support personnel. The IOC retains the authority to invite these athletes, contingent upon their acceptance of the invitation and adherence to the Conditions of Participation, which include a commitment to uphold the Olympic Charter.
Restrictions from Other Sports Federations
While the IOC has allowed limited participation of AINs in figure skating, other sports federations have imposed stricter regulations. The International Biathlon Union, World Curling Federation, and International Ice Hockey Federation have barred Russian and Belarusian athletes from their competitions, meaning they will not compete at Milano Cortina 2026. Conversely, the International Bobsled and Skeleton Federation and the International Luge Federation have been instructed to permit AINs to compete for qualification purposes, following rulings from their respective Appeals Tribunals.
Upcoming Decisions
The International Ski & Snowboard Federation has also prohibited Russian and Belarusian participation, with an appeal from the Russian Ski Association pending before the Court of Arbitration for Sport. A decision on this appeal is expected by December 10, 2025.
Criticism and Opposition
The inclusion of AINs has sparked debate within the sports community. Critics argue that allowing athletes from countries involved in geopolitical conflicts undermines the integrity of the Olympic spirit. In contrast, proponents assert that these athletes should have the opportunity to compete, separate from the actions of their governments.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Participation in the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games is subject to the athletes’ acceptance of the individual invitation and signing of the Conditions of Participation applicable to all participants.” — International Olympic Committee
- “These conditions will also apply to the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games.” — International Olympic Committee
The eligibility of AINs for the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games reflects ongoing tensions in international sports, balancing competitive opportunities with geopolitical realities.
