International Equestrian Federation lifts ban on Russian and Belarusian athletes

The International Equestrian Federation has ended its four-and-a-half-year ban on Russian and Belarusian riders, horses, and officials. Effective October 5, participants from these regions will no longer compete as Neutral Individual Athletes and may represent their national flags at federation events. The decision also permits equestrian events to be hosted within Russia. This policy adjustment follows the International Olympic Committee's decision in June to provisionally lift its own suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee. Consequently, athletes from the region may become eligible to compete under their national banners at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. While finalizing the policy, the International Equestrian Federation reiterated its continued support for the people of Ukraine.

• 6:00 PMYahoo Sports — International equestrian body lifts ban on Russia
• 6:00 PMBBC Sport — International equestrian body lifts ban on Russia