The International University Sports Federation (FISU) has officially allowed Russian athletes to compete in events held under its authority. The decision came into effect immediately.
Russian Sports Minister Mikhail Degtyarev confirmed that even in sports where international federations still maintain restrictions against Russian athletes, FISU will now apply a neutral status mechanism instead of a complete ban.
The decision applies to both individual and team events.
In sports where international federations have already lifted restrictions, Russian athletes will be able to compete under the same conditions as other international participants.
Belarusian athletes, meanwhile, have reportedly been admitted without restrictions, including the use of their national flag and symbols.
Degtyarev also recalled that following meetings with FISU officials in Lausanne in 2025, Russian athletes were allowed to participate in the Universiade in Germany, marking their first appearance at the event in six years.
According to the minister, FISU continues to gradually ease restrictions for Russian student-athletes in international sports.
Svishchev: this is an important signal for other sports organizations
State Duma deputy Dmitry Svishchev also welcomed the decision.
He stated that allowing Russian athletes to compete aligns with the core mission of international sport and student exchange.
“Sport is meant to unite people, and FISU has chosen a reasonable path. This gives our athletes an opportunity to gain international experience even while some federations still maintain restrictions.”
Svishchev added that the decision could influence other international sports bodies.
“FISU is sending the right signal to other major organizations that Russian athletes should return to international competition. It is especially important that this also applies to team sports.”
The next Winter Universiade will take place in China in 2027.
