The FIA has decided to lift the restrictions imposed since 2022 on Russian and Belarusian drivers, competitors, and officials participating in international motorsport competitions.
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These measures were introduced in March 2022 following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, then revised in February 2023.
Unlike other sports federations, the FIA had never completely banned the participation of Russians and Belarusians, but they had to compete under a neutral flag.
They also had to sign a commitment to respect the principles of peace and political neutrality of the Federation.
Return of national flags and anthems
In a statement published yesterday, the FIA’s legal department confirmed the end of these provisions: “Russian and Belarusian drivers, national teams, individual competitors, and officials are allowed to participate in international or regional competitions without any restrictions. The obligation to sign a neutrality commitment no longer applies.”
The decision was adopted by the World Motor Sport Council and will remain in effect until further notice. The affected drivers and teams will now also be able to use their flags, colors, and national symbols, while the Russian and Belarusian anthems may once again be played during competitions organized under the FIA’s aegis.
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However, an important restriction remains: Russia and Belarus still cannot host international competitions.
The FIM does not follow the FIA or the IOC
The Federation specifies that it “ continues to closely monitor events in Ukraine and reserves the right to take any additional measures in the future ”, notably to comply with the various sanction regimes it may be subject to.
This decision comes after a similar easing by the International Olympic Committee regarding Russia and recommendations aimed at allowing Belarusian athletes to regain their national identity. The situation remains different in motorcycle sport. The FIM maintains, on its side, the complete ban on participation of Russian and Belarusian drivers and officials in its international competitions.
In Formula 1, this turnaround could concern drivers Nikita Mazepin (photo above) and Robert Shwartzman, who has meanwhile raced under an Israeli license, notably by securing pole position at the Indianapolis 500 last year. Winner in Austin in WEC on Ferrari 499P in 2024, there is talk of him joining Peugeot Sport for the next World Endurance Championship campaign.
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