FIVB reinstates Russian volleyball teams after IOC eases restrictions

The International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) lifted the ban on Russian players and teams on July 8, 2026. This decision followed the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) recommendation to end restrictions on Russian athletes. The FIVB expressed commitment to athletes' right to compete but continued to condemn violence related to the war in Ukraine. The details concerning the use of the Russian flag and anthem at competitions will be addressed later. Russian volleyball teams were previously suspended following the country's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, and the FIVB has now restored Russia's rankings to third for men and ninth for women. Other sports federations had also reinstated Russian athletes recently, but World Athletics still has not done so.

• 9:51 PMYahoo Sports — International volleyball federation lifts Russia ban