World Athletics keeps ban on Russian athletes as Russia turns to CAS

World Athletics confirmed on Sunday that its ban on Russian and Belarusian athletes, first imposed in March 2022 after the invasion of Ukraine, remains in force. The decision comes as Russian Athletics filed a fresh claim with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) seeking to have the restrictions lifted and to restore its full rights ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

Russia seeks CAS relief

The Russian federation argues the sanctions are "selective and politicised" and that they prevent it from representing its athletes on the world stage. It also wants Russian competitors to be allowed to qualify for the Los Angeles Games, echoing the International Olympic Committee's recent move to let Russian athletes compete in team events and qualifiers.

World Athletics' position

Speaking on the sidelines of the inaugural Ultimate Championship in Budapest, the head of World Athletics, former double Olympic champion Sebastian Coe, reiterated that the federation's policy has not changed.

It is not about politics or passports, it is about the integrity of competition.

Coe stressed that the ban is about preserving fair play, not punishing athletes for their government's actions. He added that a resolution is needed, but any change must protect the sport’s competitive standards.

What comes next

The CAS will hear Russia's case later this year. A ruling in favour of the Russian federation could force World Athletics to relax its restrictions, potentially opening the door for Russian athletes to compete in the 2028 Olympics. Conversely, upholding the ban would keep the current status quo, maintaining pressure on Russia while preserving the sport’s stated commitment to integrity.

Both sides acknowledge the stakes: athletes seeking Olympic dreams and a governing body defending its anti‑politic stance. The outcome will likely influence how other sports handle similar geopolitical dilemmas.