Handball governing body lifts ban on Russia and Belarus, allowing return to IHF competitions

The decision comes in the wake of the International Olympic Committee's recent decision to lift the suspension.

The International Handball Federation, IHF, announces that it is lifting the suspension of Russian and Belarusian teams and representatives with immediate effect.

This means that Russia and Belarus can once again participate in competitions sanctioned by the IHF, including the World Championships. Actual participation, however, requires qualifying for the championship.

However, the European Championship playoffs are organised by the European Handball Federation and are not covered by the IHF's decisions.