Overview

• Numerous Russian athletes are competing under a neutral flag at the 2025 World Aquatics Championships after being approved by the World Aquatics Integrity Unit.
• German world-champion swimmer Josha Salchow warned the policy leaves a “faint aftertaste” by overlooking Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine.
• He questioned whether allowing neutral-entry Russians could blur the ethical lines when they compete against Ukrainian athletes in events such as the 2026 Winter Olympics.
• Key winter sports including luge and ice hockey continue to bar Russian participation while biathlon events showcase strong support for Ukraine.
• Discipline-by-discipline decisions on neutral-entry for Russian athletes at the 2026 Winter Games remain unresolved.