The International Handball Federation (IHF) has decided to fully reinstate the participation of national teams, officials, referees, lecturers, and experts from Belarus and Russia in all its competitions and events. The decision took effect immediately and was made in accordance with the latest recommendations from the International Olympic Committee.
The IHF acknowledged that full reintegration might take some time, but expressed its readiness to return Belarusian and Russian teams to the international handball community.
The Federation noted that the return process had been gradual. In March 2026, youth teams from Belarus and Russia were allowed to participate in friendly matches and tournaments, provided there was confirmation of no ties to military or security structures. In May, the possibility of granting special invitations to Belarusian or Russian teams for individual youth international tournaments was approved.
Before Belarusian and Russian athletes return to international tournaments, the IHF, together with the International Testing Agency, will ensure compliance with all anti-doping control requirements. At the same time, no additional conditions or restrictions for participation will be applied.
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