World Aquatics amends guidelines for Russians, Belarusians

Following a joint decision with the Aquatics Integrity Unit, swimmers from both countries will be allowed to compete in international events under the same conditions as other athletes, provided they pass at least four consecutive anti-doping tests.

The World Aquatics Athletes' Committee also took part in the decision-making process and, following deliberations, the guidelines governing athlete participation in aquatic events during periods of political conflict ceased to apply to senior athletes from both countries. The policy shift comes after the governing body restored the same conditions enjoyed by athletes of other sporting nationalities, allowing them to compete with their respective uniforms, flags and national anthems, something that had already previously been granted to junior athletes.

"Over the last three years, World Aquatics and the AQIU have successfully ensured that conflict remains outside sporting venues. We are determined to make sure that swimming pools and open water events continue to be places where athletes from all nations can come together in peaceful competition," said World Aquatics President Husain Al Musallam following the announcement.

More than 700 tests were carried out on athletes from Belarus and Russia as part of the implementation of the guidelines and, since March 2023, swimmers from both nations have competed as Neutral Individual Athletes, with team events later also being opened to them. It was on 18 November 2024 that World Aquatics revised its regulations to allow neutral athletes to compete in relay events, synchronised diving and team artistic swimming.

Gradually and step by step, the governing body has broadened the conditions under which Russian and Belarusians swimmers may compete, depending on developments in the conflicts, particularly the war in Ukraine, thereby allowing greater participation for athletes.

Although the application of the guidelines has been amended, the World Aquatics Bureau agreed to retain key provisions in the interest of safe and fair competition, including the obligation to comply with International Testing Agency monitoring and protection protocols.

 

The requirement to undergo several initial screening procedures before returning to normal competition conditions is a consensual measure adopted by all parties, providing confidence and reassurance to the sporting community. In addition, once these requirements have been met, athletes must also complete background checks carried out by the AQIU.

Russia and Belarus have also now fully regained their membership rights under Article 6 of the World Aquatics Constitution.