Russia disputes World Athletics Federation sanctions

Russia's athletics federation is challenging the World Athletics Federation's sanctions, which have barred Russian and Belarusian athletes since March 2022 following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The federation asserts that these sanctions are "selective and politicized," infringing upon their rights and preventing them from fully representing Russian athletes internationally.

This stance contrasts with the International Olympic Committee's decision to allow Russian athletes in team and qualifying events for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Unlike the World Athletics Federation, other sports federations, such as the World Gymnastics Federation and the International Skating Union, have eased restrictions on Russian athletes.

"The sanctions against the Russian Athletics Federation are unprecedented. No other sports federation faces such strict restrictions," stated Boris Yaryshevsky, the executive director of the Russian Athletics Federation. He added that the sanctions not only impede the federation's normal operations but also halt the development of athletics in Russia, particularly among young athletes, preventing proper international representation.

"This is precisely why we will consistently defend our rights, seek the annulment of sanctions through legal channels, and continue to work in this direction. We are already preparing further actions to restore justice," Yaryshevsky added.