Participation of Russian Athletes in Winter Olympics Under Scrutiny

In two distinct matters, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) issued directions regarding the participation of Russian athletes for the upcoming Olympic Winter Games Milano/Cortina 2026. The first was an appeal by the Russian Luge Federation (RLF) and six Russian athletes against the International Luge Federation (FIL). The second appeal was by speed skater Daria Kachanova against the International Skating Union (ISU).

In the first matter, the FIL had extended its resolution to suspend the participation of RLF athletes, coaches, and officials from FIL competitions, citing risks to the safety of events, and did not implement a programme that allowed Russian athletes to participate under the Individual Neutral Athlete (AIN) status. The Panel considered that the overall exclusion of Russian athletes was not a proportionate measure, as other measures could be found to balance safety with Russian athletes’ participation. However, the exclusion of RLF athletes from FIL competitions was upheld, though athletes meeting the AIN criteria were permitted to compete. 

However, Daria’s appeal was dismissed based on a report outlining her connection with CSKA Moscow, a sports club under the control of the Ministry of Defence of Russia. 

Following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, many international sports federations have imposed blanket bans on Russian and Belarusian athletes. The CAS has also received appeals by the Russian Ski Association against the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS). The appeal concerns a FIS decision “to not facilitate the participation of Russian and Belarussian athletes as Individual Neutral Athletes (AIN) in FIS qualification events.”