IJF Allows Russian Athletes National Symbols in Events

The International Judo Federation announced on Thursday that Russian athletes may compete under their national flag, anthem, and insignia at international events, marking the first such reinstatement by an Olympic sport governing body since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

The decision, approved by the IJF Executive Committee, takes effect at the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam scheduled for November 28 to 30, 2025. Previously, Russian and Belarusian athletes had faced restrictions following Russia's full-scale invasion, with many barred entirely from competitions in early 2022. Over time, select individuals were permitted to participate as neutrals, without national symbols, in line with measures adopted by numerous international federations to address the geopolitical conflict.

The IJF emphasized its commitment to keeping sport neutral and independent from political influences. "Athletes have no responsibility for the decisions of governments or other national institutions, and it is our duty to protect the sport and our athletes," the federation stated. It highlighted judo's roots in values of peace, unity, and friendship, adding that the sport serves as "the last bridge that unites people...