International Gymnastics Federation Restores Russian Flag and Anthem

Regional outlets critical of Moscow frame FIG’s decision as a rollback of pressure on Russia and Belarus over the war in Ukraine. This view stresses that allowing national flags and anthems gives both states normal international visibility while the conflict and occupation continue. Commentators in this block expect some countries, athletes, or sponsors to push back, including possible boycotts or demands for stricter conditions on Russian and Belarusian participation.

• •Regional coverage notes that FIG’s reversal restores full national representation for Russia and Belarus despite the ongoing war in Ukraine.
• •Critics argue that lifting restrictions weakens one of the few non-military tools used to signal disapproval of Russia’s invasion.
• •Some commentators warn that Ukrainian athletes may face Russian and Belarusian teams under their national symbols while their own country remains under attack.
• •Regional outlets suggest that governments and national gymnastics federations could respond with protests or selective boycotts of events featuring Russian symbols.
• •Commentators in this block argue that international sports bodies are prioritizing a return to business as usual over accountability for wartime actions.