The International Ski Federation (FIS) has allowed athletes from Russia and Belarus to compete in the 2026/27 season under a neutral status. Admission will not be automatic: athletes and some support staff must sign a declaration of neutrality, meet the established requirements and undergo verification to ensure compliance.
Briefly about the main points
- The FIS has set out the conditions for the participation of representatives from Russia and Belarus.
- Eligibility will apply only to individual events.
- Flags, national anthems, uniforms and other state symbols are prohibited.
- A declaration of neutrality and compliance with anti-doping requirements are required.
- The actual number of participants will be determined by individual decisions taken by the FIS.
Not the return of national teams, but personal, neutral access
Council Decision FIS It applies to the entire 2026/27 season and provides for athletes and support staff from both countries to be able to compete. It does not mean that national teams will resume participation: athletes may only compete in individual events.
The display of national symbols, including flags, national anthems and national team kit, will not be permitted at the competitions. The FIS adopted these conditions following a review of the International Olympic Committee’s latest decisions regarding the participation of representatives from Russia and Belarus.
The declaration of neutrality will be reviewed throughout the season
To take part, athletes and support staff must sign a declaration based on the FIS principles of neutrality. According to the federation, candidates must also have no links to their countries’ armed forces.
The FIS has stated that it will continuously monitor compliance with the principles of neutrality and will be able to impose sanctions in the event of breaches. A separate mandatory requirement is compliance with all applicable anti-doping rules.
The actual extent of participation will depend on individual decisions regarding the granting of neutral status.
