ISU ending ban on Russian/Belarusian skaters for 2026-27 season
Key Questions
When will the ISU lift its ban on Russian and Belarusian skaters?
The ISU has decided to end the ban starting with the 2026-27 season. This marks a major policy shift after several years of restrictions.
Which Russian skaters are returning to ISU events now?
Eight Russian junior skaters have been cleared as neutrals for the Junior Grand Prix. They are set to compete internationally again after four years, including at the stage in Xi'an.
What details remain unclear about senior skaters?
Information on senior-level qualification and full participation is still emerging. The current steps focus primarily on junior competitions under neutral status.
The ISU has decided to lift the ban on Russian and Belarusian skaters for the 2026-27 season, a major policy shift. A concrete step has been taken: eight Russian skaters have been cleared as neutrals for the Junior Grand Prix. Details on senior qualification and participation are still emerging.