The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has provisionally lifted the suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC), a move that could allow Russian athletes to compete at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. The ROC was suspended in 2023 following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
The IOC stated that the previous ban is "no longer applicable" and that athletes from Russia can participate if they meet relevant anti-doping requirements. However, no decision has yet been made regarding the display of Russia's flag, colors, or anthem during the Games.
Some Russian athletes previously competed in the 2024 Paris Games and the most recent Winter Olympics as neutral participants. Russia has welcomed the IOC's decision, with Russian sports minister Mikhail Degtyarev expressing on Telegram that the Games should be "free from politics." He also indicated Russia's intention to participate in qualifiers for the 2028 Olympics.