‘Disgraceful’: anger as World Aquatics allows Russia to compete under flag again
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Restrictions have been in place since 2022 invasion
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Ukrainian athlete says move will spread propaganda
Swimming has agreed to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete without restrictions under their own flag and anthem for the first time since 2022, prompting joy in Russia and outrage in Ukraine.
The decision by World Aquatics, which also oversees diving and water polo, adds further momentum to Russia’s bid to be allowed back for the Los Angeles Olympic Games in 2028 following judo’s decision to do the same last year.