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flag Russian and Belarusian athletes banned from competing under their flags at 2026 Winter Olympics, per IOC.

flag The International Olympic Committee reaffirmed its 2022 ban on Russian and Belarusian athletes competing under their nations' flags at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina, regardless of a potential peace agreement. flag Athletes from both countries may only participate as neutrals, without national symbols, a policy upheld by IOC President Kirsty Coventry. flag The decision follows Ukraine’s ongoing war with Russia, and despite a report identifying 56 Russian winter sports athletes with ties to the war effort, the IOC maintains its eligibility criteria. flag A limited exception allows youth athletes from Russia and Belarus to compete under their national flags in youth events, pending federation approval. flag The Games are set for February 6–22, 2026.

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