Home / Sports / FIDE Reinstates Russia, Belarus; Flags Still Unclear
FIDE Reinstates Russia, Belarus; Flags Still Unclear
15 Dec, 2025
Summary
- FIDE allows Russian and Belarusian teams back into official competitions.
- Youth players from both nations have full rights restored by FIDE.
- Decision on national flags and anthems for adult events is postponed.
The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has announced a significant shift regarding the participation of Russian and Belarusian chess players. The FIDE General Assembly recently voted to permit teams from Russia and Belarus to re-enter official competitions, a move that also fully restores the rights of youth players from these nations. This decision aligns with guidance from the International Olympic Committee concerning political neutrality in sports.
While teams are now eligible for FIDE tournaments and restrictions on hosting events in Belarus have been lifted, the use of national symbols remains a point of discussion. The FIDE Council will engage in further consultations with the IOC before making a final determination on whether national flags and anthems will be permitted in adult team events.
This development comes after Russian and Belarusian athletes faced various restrictions in international sports following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. FIDE's decision marks a step towards reintegrating these athletes, with the specific matter of national emblems in adult competitions to be resolved in the near future.
