World Sailing shift for Ukraine crisis

In February 2022, World Sailing joined the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and global sports organizations in suspending participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes and race officials in World Sailing owned and sanctioned competitions and events until further notice.

The position of the international federation had been frequently reviewed, with the latest discussion on July 23, 2025. The result was how there was no material change in the circumstances giving rise to the suspensions and that they would therefore remain in place until the next review which will be on or before the October 23, 2025.

This includes the suspension of the participation of any boat owned or effectively controlled or managed by a Russian or Belarusian individual or entity.

However, following the recent World Sailing vote, Russian and Belarussian sailors, support personnel, and race officials will be permitted to participate as neutrals in World Sailing owned and sanctioned competitions and events, in line with IOC guidance.

Boats owned by individuals who are sailing as neutrals under the World Sailing Neutrality Policy are also permitted.

The policy was supported with 29 votes for, five against, with two abstentions.

Participation of athletes with dual nationalities and those applying for a Residence Certificate after being resident in a new country for over three years will still be processed in accordance with the World Sailing Eligibility Code. Council also voted to take no action in relation to Russian and Belarussian administrators who are permitted to take up places on World Sailing Council, Committees, Sub Committees, and Commissions.

Source: World Sailing