Russia’s senior teams denied return to international tournaments

World Curling has imposed restrictions on Russia’s participation in senior international competitions, barring Russian adult teams from tournaments until at least the end of 2026, the federation announced on August 11. After deliberation, the organization’s board decided that welcoming Russian teams back would jeopardize the integrity of its competitions, considering the stance of the majority of its national member federations.

However, restrictions do not extend to junior and youth teams, who were permitted to compete internationally again in January. Russia is pursuing a legal challenge against the sanctions via the Court of Arbitration for Sport, with a ruling on the case anticipated soon. Additionally, Russia lost its full membership status within World Curling in late July.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) had already lifted its suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee on July 7, following the exclusion of any regional sports organizations based in Ukrainian territories. The IOC’s decision was subsequently contested by Ukraine’s National Olympic Committee through the CAS.