How Putin’s favorite sport reopened the door to international contests
Brussels officials are grappling with the gradual reintegration of Moscow’s athletes, according to a document viewed by POLITICO.
Kyiv — Russia is regaining traction in international sports, particularly in judo, as the Los Angeles Olympics approach in 2028. At the heart of this resurgence is President Vladimir Putin's keen interest in the martial art. The International Judo Federation (IJF), under the leadership of Austrian-Romanian executive Marius Vizer, has played a pivotal role in allowing Russian athletes to compete under their national flag since the country's invasion of Ukraine began in 2022.
Vizer, who has been at the helm of the IJF since 2007, has been accused of fostering connections between Putin, Russia's elites, and global business interests. Despite criticism, the IJF reinstated Russian athletes in November 2025, marking a significant step towards Moscow's reintegration into world sports. This move has sparked concern in Brussels, where EU officials are considering measures to prevent Russia's further involvement in international sports.
Written by urgent.news from Politico EU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
