World Boxing Allows Russian, Belarusian Boxers to Compete as Neutrals
World Boxing has announced that Russian and Belarusian boxers can compete internationally as Individual Neutral Athletes (AIN) with immediate effect, following the approval of their federations' membership applications. The policy bans national symbols and mandates a vetting process, aligning with IOC guidelines.
World Boxing has announced that boxers from Russia and Belarus will be allowed to compete internationally “with immediate effect” as neutral athletes.
“This process was approved by the World Boxing Executive Board at its most recent meeting in April 2026 and reflects the approach of the International Olympic Committee (IOC),” World Boxing said in a statement on Tuesday.
Under the policy, athletes from the two countries will compete as Individual Neutral Athletes (AIN), without national flags, anthems, symbols, or uniforms, and will be subject to a vetting process.
The move follows the World Boxing Executive Board’s decision in March to approve membership applications from the Russian and Belarusian boxing federations, paving the way for their athletes to participate in events.
The AIN procedure will apply to all age-category competitions organized by World Boxing, European Boxing, and international events run by national federations, and also includes coaches, support staff, and team officials.
World Boxing said the procedure takes effect immediately, with the secretary-general officially informing the Russian and Belarusian boxing federations of how the measures will be implemented.
