World Climbing lifts ban on Russian and Belarusian Federations

The decision was made by the World Climbing Executive Board during the February meeting in Turin and communicated to all affiliated National Federations. The suspension had been applied following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in March 2022.

Despite the lifting of the suspension, two main provisions remain in effect:

1. Athlete Neutrality: Athletes and team officials with Russian and Belarusian passports will only be able to participate in international competitions as Neutral Athletes, without national symbols.

2. Ban on Organizing Events: The organization of international events in Russia and Belarus will not be permitted until further notice.

The next step will be the World Climbing General Assembly in Riyadh in April 2026, which will include a session dedicated to the role of sport and International Federations in the broader geopolitical context.