European Aquatics has changed its rules on the participation of Belarusian and Russian athletes in competitions held under its auspices.
Belarusian and Russian athletes will be allowed to take part in youth and junior competitions under their national flags.
“Athletes holding Russian or Belarusian passports and competing in youth and junior categories are no longer subject to restrictions on participation in European Aquatics competitions — both in individual and team disciplines. Accordingly, at all non-senior competitions, athletes with Russian and Belarusian passports are permitted to compete without background checks and in full compliance with European Aquatics protocols relating to flags, anthems, uniforms and related elements, provided that the relevant national sports organisations hold valid accreditation with European Aquatics,” the press release said.
Senior athletes and support personnel may take part in individual and team European Aquatics competitions after obtaining neutral status.