Full Breakdown
World Athletics Reaffirms Ban on Russian and Belarusian Athletes Ahead of CAS Hearing
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Reaffirmation of Ban Ahead of Arbitration
World Athletics announced that it will continue to exclude Russian and Belarusian athletes from all international competitions. The decision was reiterated by President Sebastian Coe on the final day of the inaugural Ultimate Championship in Budapest. The stance persists despite a fresh legal challenge by the All-Russia Athletics Federation (RusAF) filed with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Background of the Sanctions
The ban was first imposed in March 2022 after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Since then, World Athletics has maintained a total exclusion policy, whereas other federations such as the International Olympic Committee have allowed neutral participation for Russian athletes in certain events. RusAF’s appeal, lodged on July 9, 2026, contests a World Athletics Council decision made on July 3 that reaffirmed the suspension.
Official Statements & Responses
Coe emphasized that the policy is “about the integrity of competition” and not a political measure. IOC President Kirsty Coventry stated the IOC’s position that athletes should not be penalised for their governments’ actions.
Criticism & Opposition
RusAF executive director Boris Yaryshevsky argued that Coe’s comments breach political neutrality, describing the president’s stance as “personal” rather than representative of World Athletics. He contended that the federation’s actions reflect bias rather than an objective sporting rationale.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This isn't about politics or passports, it's about the integrity of competition. From the age of 18, I believe that. Every position I've taken, whether it was during the creation of the first IOC athletes' commission or positions I've personally taken, it's about integrity and it's about competition. That matters to me, so our position won't change.” — Mr. Coe, world athletics president
- “We made it clear that we wanted to ensure all athletes have the possibility to compete at the Olympic Games and not be held responsible for their government's actions,” — IOC President Kirsty Coventry
- “It is very clear that he has something personal,” — Mr. Yaryshevsky, russian athletics executive