The Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) has announced plans to financially compensate 116 athletes who were unable to compete at the 2026 Winter Olympics due to ongoing international restrictions.
Athletes from Russia and Belarus have faced widespread bans from global sporting events since the Russia invasion of Ukraine, limiting their participation in major competitions.
At the 2026 Winter Games in Milan-Cortina, only 13 Russian athletes were cleared to compete under neutral status, following strict eligibility checks by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Russia’s Sports Minister and ROC Chairman, Mikhail Degtyarev, said the decision to award bonuses was approved by the committee to support athletes affected by what he described as politically motivated exclusions.
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He added that authorities are continuing efforts to secure the full reinstatement of Russian teams in international competitions, including competing under their national flag and anthem.
Despite the restrictions, Nikita Filippov emerged as the country’s only medalist at the Games, winning silver in ski mountaineering.
Meanwhile, some athletes from both Russia and Belarus were allowed to compete under their national flags at the Winter Paralympic Games for the first time in years, following a decision by the International Paralympic Committee to lift previous suspensions.
The situation continues to reflect the broader impact of geopolitical tensions on global sports, as governing bodies balance competition integrity with international sanctions.
