NPR
International Olympic Committee lifts Russia suspension ahead of 2028 LA Games
Tuesday, July 7, 2026
The International Olympic Committee advised sports bodies to end a three-year program that reviewed Russians competing as neutral athletes, effective before qualifying events for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Russian athletes have competed under neutral status since 2022 following the country's suspension related to the invasion of Ukraine. The IOC did not reinstate Russia's official Olympic status but removed the requirement for additional vetting of Russian competitors.