Controversy Looms Over Russia and Belarus' Potential Return to 2028 Olympics

Support for Ukraine at Recent Games Foreshadows Challenges for Reinstatement

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The display of support for Ukrainian athletes at the recent Milan-Cortina Games may foreshadow difficulties in the potential reinstatement of Russia and Belarus for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Russia has faced multiple bans from international sporting events, beginning with a government-led doping scandal following the 2014 Winter Olympics, and later due to the invasion of Ukraine. Currently, Russian athletes are competing as 'Individual Neutral Athletes,' but there are indications the International Olympic Committee (IOC) may be open to easing the existing ban.

Why it matters

The possibility of Russia's participation in the 2028 Games is generating debate, given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. A decision on the matter could depend on the evolving geopolitical landscape and the IOC's assessment of the conditions for a fair and inclusive Games.

The details

Russia has faced multiple bans from international sporting events, beginning with a government-led doping scandal following the 2014 Winter Olympics. This led to a ban from the 2018 Games, followed by another doping scandal in 2022, and subsequently, a ban due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Currently, Russian athletes are not competing under the Russian flag but as 'Individual Neutral Athletes,' with the stipulation that they have not expressed support for Russia's war on Ukraine. Despite this, there are indications that these rules may be relaxed, as the IOC has recently recommended allowing Russian athletes to compete under their national flag in the Youth Olympics, and the current IOC President has publicly suggested openness to easing the existing ban.

  • Russia was initially banned following a government-led doping scandal after the 2014 Winter Olympics.
  • Russia was banned from the 2018 Games due to the doping scandal.
  • Russia faced another ban in 2022 due to the invasion of Ukraine.

The players

International Olympic Committee (IOC)

The international governing body of the Olympic Movement, with responsibility for overseeing the Olympic Games and the participation of athletes.

Russia

A country that has faced multiple bans from international sporting events due to doping scandals and its invasion of Ukraine.

Ukraine

A country whose athletes have received significant support at recent Olympic Games, which may complicate Russia's potential reinstatement.

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What’s next

The IOC's decision on Russia and Belarus' potential reinstatement for the 2028 Olympics will likely depend on the evolving geopolitical landscape and the committee's assessment of the conditions for a fair and inclusive Games.

The takeaway

The controversy surrounding Russia and Belarus' potential return to the Olympics highlights the complex interplay between sports, politics, and principles of fairness and inclusion. The IOC's decision will have significant implications for the future of the Olympic movement and its ability to navigate geopolitical tensions.