IJF returns the Russian flag to the judo world: a decision that could escalate sporting and political controversy
27 November 2025 19:49
The International Judo Federation (IJF) has allowed athletes from Russia to compete under its flag and anthem again, a decision that could potentially spark a new wave of debate in the sports world and beyond. The organization announced this in its official statement, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports.
What the IJF decided and why
The federation’s executive committee said that after allowing Belarusian athletes to return their national symbols in May 2025, the logical step is to restore the same rights to Russians. The IJF emphasized that Russia has historically been a “leading country” in judo, and its full return would allegedly contribute to the development of the sport, “adhering to the principles of fairness, inclusiveness and respect.”
The Federation repeated the thesis repeatedly voiced by international sports organizations during discussions about the participation of Russian athletes after the start of the invasion of Ukraine: “athletes are not responsible” for the actions of governments.
How the status of Russians in judo has changed
In April 2023, the IJF allowed Russians and Belarusians to compete only under a neutral flag and under the guarantee that the athletes were not involved in war propaganda. However, within a few weeks, journalists found that at least seven Russians who are active military personnel had been registered for the 2023 World Championships. This incident led to a boycott of the tournament by the Ukrainian national team.
The decision to return national symbols to Russian athletes may call into question the IJF’s ability to meet the previous criteria of “neutrality,” particularly with regard to ties to armed forces.
What are the consequences?
The IJF’s move may trigger a new wave of criticism from both Ukrainian sports institutions and countries that support a tough stance on Russia’s international isolation in sports.
At the same time, it may be perceived as a signal to other federations where the status of Russian athletes is still limited.
