In a decision described as "historic," the International Judo Federation (IJF) announced it would remove "neutral athlete" status from Russian judokas, allowing them to compete in international competitions under their country's flag and with their national anthem played. This major shift, which will take effect at the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam 2025, ends a period of restrictions imposed on Russian sport following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Background of the decision and context of sports sanctions
Since the start of the conflict in Ukraine, Russia and its ally Belarus have faced widespread sporting isolation. Following recommendations from the International Olympic Committee, most international sports federations imposed blanket bans on athletes from both countries. Over time, these recommendations evolved to allow participation as “individual neutral athletes,” meaning without the national flag or anthem, under strict conditions that barred any athlete supporting the war or affiliated with military and security institutions from competing. The International Judo Federation was among the first federations to implement the neutral athlete system in 2023, sparking considerable controversy and prompting Ukraine to boycott tournaments featuring Russian and Belarusian athletes.
The importance of the decision and its expected impact
This move is particularly significant given the status of judo in Russia, where it is considered a "presidential sport" as it is the favorite sport of President Vladimir Putin, who holds a black belt in it. The Russian Judo Federation and the Russian Ministry of Sport warmly welcomed the decision. Sergey Solovychik, president of the Russian Judo Federation, said: "We are delighted that the International Judo Federation was the first to take this historic decision.".
Internationally, the International Judo Federation's decision could set a precedent encouraging other sports federations to take similar steps, potentially leading to the full reintegration of Russian sport into the global arena. The federation justified its decision by citing "recent developments," including the full reinstatement of Belarusian athletes to international competition, arguing that it was logical to apply equal conditions to Russia. The statement added: "Historically, Russia has been a leading nation in the world of judo, and their full return is expected to enrich the level of competition at all levels.".
Reactions and divisions in the sports world
This decision is expected to elicit mixed reactions. While Russia views it as a diplomatic and sporting victory, Ukraine and its allies are likely to see it as a move that ignores the ongoing conflict. Previous decisions to reinstate neutral athletes have led to a Ukrainian boycott of the Games, and this could be repeated or even escalate. This development highlights the deep divisions within the Olympic movement regarding how to address the political ramifications of international conflicts, placing additional pressure on the International Olympic Committee and other federations ahead of future Olympic Games.
