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IOC Allows Belarusian Athletes; ITF Keeps Suspension Amid Ukraine War

5/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) lifted restrictions on Belarusian athletes, allowing them to compete.
Elina Svitolina said decision is painful because rockets still strike Ukraine and the war continues.
The IOC said the change protects athletes’ right to compete free from political interference.
The International Tennis Federation (ITF) said its suspension of the Belarus and Russian tennis federations remains and will review Belarus’s membership at October general meeting.

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Story summary

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) lifted restrictions on Belarusian athletes, allowing them to compete.
Elina Svitolina said decision is painful because rockets still strike Ukraine and the war continues.
The IOC said the change protects athletes’ right to compete free from political interference.
The International Tennis Federation (ITF) said its suspension of the Belarus and Russian tennis federations remains and will review Belarus’s membership at October general meeting.