The decision to fully reinstate Belarusian athletes in water sports tournaments is the result of consistent work in the field of sports diplomacy, Head of the Belarusian Swimming Federation Olga Stepus said, BelTA has learned.
“The return of Belarus to the international sports arena is a major milestone that opens new opportunities for further growth. We have never doubted our right to compete under our own flag and anthem. Lifting the restrictions will allow athletes to fully concentrate on realizing their potential and achieving high results on the world stage. This is not just a formal decision, it is the outcome of consistent work by Belarus with international bodies. World Aquatics’ decision marks a new chapter for Belarusian swimming,” Olga Stepus emphasized.
She also noted that thanks to comprehensive state support, Belarus now boasts world-class infrastructure. A modern swimming pool built to international standards enables the country not only to set ambitious targets but also to seriously bid for hosting top-tier tournaments like the World and European Championships.
As previously reported, World Aquatics has decided to allow adult Belarusian and Russian athletes to compete in international events. Thus, Belarusians and Russians, on equal terms with athletes from other countries, will be able to compete in national uniforms, with flags and anthems, without any restrictions. Earlier, youth and junior athletes were allowed to compete under the same conditions.
