Russian and Belarusian swimmers allowed to compete under their national flags

Russian and Belarusian swimmers will be permitted to compete under their national flags at international swimming competitions. Previously, athletes from both countries could only participate with neutral status and were required to confirm they did not support the war in Ukraine. The decision marks a significant shift in the international swimming federation's policy regarding athletes from these nations since Russia's invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022. The change affects how Russian and Belarusian swimmers can represent their countries at major international competitions, reversing restrictions that had been in place as part of broader sporting sanctions.