The World Judo Federation (WJJF) has lifted its ban on Russian athletes competing under the Russian national flag, ending a restriction that had been in place since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The decision comes after a period of international scrutiny and sanctions against Russia following the conflict in Ukraine. Russian judokas, who were previously required to compete under a neutral flag, will now be able to represent their country in international competitions, including the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The move has sparked mixed reactions within the judo community. Some athletes and officials have welcomed the decision, arguing that it is a step toward normalizing international sports competition. Others have expressed concerns about the implications of allowing Russian athletes to compete under their national flag, given the ongoing conflict. The WJJF stated that the decision was made in consultation with international sports organizations and that it aims to balance the need for fairness and international relations.
The federation emphasized that its decision does not imply any endorsement of Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Instead, it focuses on the importance of maintaining the integrity of sports competition and ensuring that athletes can participate without undue restrictions. The revised rules will take effect for the upcoming international competitions, and the WJJF will continue to monitor the situation closely.