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Russian Flags Banned from Milan Winter Olympics, Even with Ceasefire

Published January 8, 2026, 07:13
Russian Flags Banned from Milan Winter Olympics, Even with Ceasefire

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has decided to ban the Russian flag and any other Russian national symbols from the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, even in the event of a ceasefire in Ukraine. The decision comes in response to the appearance of the Russian flag in the stands during the Tour de Ski. Russian athletes will be allowed to compete as neutrals, but will not participate in the opening ceremony or team events, and their medals will not be reflected in the medal table. IOC President Kirsty Coventry emphasized that a ceasefire would not affect the terms of participation for Russian athletes.