The FEI will allow Russian riders to compete under their national flag and permit international events in Russia starting October 5.
Key facts
- •Restrictions on Russian national flags, anthems, and uniforms will be lifted effective October 5.
- •The FEI Council approved the move following negotiations with the Russian Equestrian Federation.
- •Russia is permitted to host FEI-sanctioned competitions starting October 5, provided they comply with regulations.
- •Other international federations, including those for gymnastics and wrestling, have also eased restrictions on Russian and Belarusian athletes.
The International Equestrian Federation (FEI) announced it will lift restrictions on Russian riders and officials beginning October 5. The governing body will once again permit international competitions to be held in Russia and allow athletes to compete under their national flag, anthem, and colors.
Background and Conditions
Russian and Belarusian riders have been barred from representing their countries at FEI events since March 2022, though some participated as neutral athletes. The FEI stated the decision follows the International Olympic Committee's move in July to provisionally lift its suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee.
Compliance and Regional Status
The FEI received written confirmation from the Russian Equestrian Federation that it does not operate equestrian clubs or develop the sport in Crimea, Sevastopol, or the Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia regions. The FEI noted it will continue to support the Ukrainian equestrian community through a relief fund established in 2022.
Timeline
- March 2022The FEI barred Russian and Belarusian riders from representing their countries under national flags.
- JulyThe International Olympic Committee provisionally lifted its suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee.
- October 5The FEI will lift restrictions on Russian riders and allow international competitions to be held in Russia.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by The Moscow Times.
