The FIS will allow Russian and Belarusian winter athletes to compete in the World Cup under a neutral status with conditions, continuing the push toward a neutral participation model.

This policy mirrors a December ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport that allowed a return after a four-year ban tied to the Ukraine war, though Milan Cortina 2026 eligibility remains a goal.

The neutral-athlete framework is renewed for the upcoming season, enforcing that competitors participate without national symbols.

The update notes ongoing monitoring and potential future changes, with the article expected to be updated as needed.

Strict anti-doping controls will be enforced, with penalties for non-compliance.

Athletes must avoid displaying country symbols such as flags, anthems, or uniforms while competing.

National symbols of Russia or Belarus are banned during events under the neutrality rules.

Participation requires adherence to the neutrality declaration, with sanctions possible for violations and no display of country symbols.

The IOC’s recommendation is a driver of policy changes across sports toward neutral or flag-appropriate participation, amid sensitivities surrounding Ukraine and geopolitics.

The season starts next month, and neutral status extends into the 2026-2027 winter season under the same principles.

Athletes, coaches, and officials from these countries must sign a neutrality declaration and will be monitored, with sanctions for violations, and may participate only as individuals, not representing a country.

Participation is strictly on an individual basis under FIS neutrality principles, with ongoing monitoring and potential sanctions for breaches.