Photo: EPA
World Aquatics has officially allowed Russian athletes to return to water polo competitions under a neutral flag, according to the federation's newly published regulations.
Starting January 1, athletes from countries involved in military conflicts will be eligible to compete in World Aquatics–sanctioned events, provided they meet neutrality criteria.
Water polo is set to become the first team sport in which Russian athletes will be permitted to return to international competition since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
To be cleared for participation, athletes must undergo vetting to ensure they are not linked to security or military structures, have not supported the war, and comply with anti-doping rules. All national symbols — including flags, emblems, and anthems — will remain banned.
The decision follows earlier International Olympic Committee recommendations that paved the way for Russian athletes to compete in individual sports under a neutral status over the past two years. However, team competitions had previously remained off-limits.
