World Boxing lifts restrictions on Belarus but not Russia

World Boxing on Tuesday lifted restrictions on Belarusians competing under their own flag, but those on Russian athletes remain in place.

Competitors from Russia and its allies Belarus had been banned from international competition following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, although some were permitted to compete as neutrals.

Boxing’s governing body had decided last month to allow athletes from Belarus, as well as those from Russia, to participate in its competitions under a neutral banner.

But it has decided to lift these restrictions concerning Belarusian boxers following a recent recommendation by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

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“The removal of restrictions on Belarus has been introduced with immediate effect and means it is now able to participate without restrictions,” World Boxing said.

However, the “procedure will continue to be applied to Russia,” it said.

“Russian delegations will not be allowed to participate with national flags, uniforms, or anthems and will have to pass a detailed vetting process to be able to take part in World Boxing competitions.”

Several federations, such as those for judo and swimming, have recently lifted their sanctions, allowing athletes from both countries to compete under their flags.

Other organisations, like the International Figure Skating Federation and World Athletics, continue to exclude both countries entirely from their competitions.

Published on May 12, 2026