The International Judo Federation has taken a significant step by restoring the full participation rights of Russian athletes in international competitions. This decision comes as the IJF becomes the first Olympic sport federation to lift restrictions on Russian athletes, allowing them to compete under their national flag, anthem, and insignia, starting at the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Slam. The move reflects the federation’s commitment to global inclusivity and the values of fair, transparent governance, as emphasized in its official statement. The IJF acknowledged Russia’s historical dominance in judo and highlighted the expected enhancement of competition quality while maintaining the sport’s principles of fairness and respect. The decision also underscores the ongoing tensions between sports organizations and political considerations, as Russian officials continue to argue that Western nations are politicizing the sport.