When will Russian judokas compete under their national flag again?

Russian judokas will be allowed to compete under their national flag and anthem starting with the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Slam.

Why did the International Judo Federation lift the ban on Russian athletes?

The IJF believes sport unites people and nations, and athletes are not responsible for their government's actions.

Has Belarus also been reinstated by the IJF?

Yes, the IJF has reinstated full national representation for Belarusian athletes, citing this as a precedent for Russia's return.

Home / Sports / Judo's World Returns: Russia Back Under National Flag

Judo's World Returns: Russia Back Under National Flag

27 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Russian athletes can compete with national flag and anthem starting 2025.
IJF cites historical significance and the sport's unifying power.
This decision follows similar relaxations for Belarusian athletes.

Judo's World Returns: Russia Back Under National Flag

The International Judo Federation (IJF) has reinstated Russian athletes, allowing them to compete under their national flag and anthem beginning with the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Slam. This move reverses the neutral status imposed following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, marking a significant shift in international judo.

The IJF's Executive Committee voted for the return, emphasizing that sport serves as a crucial bridge between nations, especially during conflict. They stated that athletes bear no responsibility for government actions and that protecting the sport and its competitors is paramount.

Historically a leading nation in judo, Russia's full return is expected to enhance competition. This decision follows the IJF's earlier reinstatement of Belarusian athletes, seen as an ally of Russia, signifying a broader trend of easing sanctions in some international sports federations.

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