Olympic sports decision allowing Russia and Belarus to compete under their flags

Following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russian and Belarusian athletes were banned from international competitions in most sports.

But now the Olympic sports of wrestling and gymnastics have decided to remove all restrictions on athletes from those countries.

Previously, athletes from those countries had been allowed to participate under a neutral flag.

The new announcement means, in practice, among other things, that athletes are allowed to compete under their own flags and that their national anthems may be played at medal ceremonies.

Both unions said the changes take effect immediately.