The Worldwide Handball Federation (IHF) has cleared the youth nationwide groups of Russia and Belarus to compete in worldwide competitions.

Supply: IHF official web site

Particulars: The IHF Council determination covers all junior age classes, together with U21. In accordance with IOC suggestions, younger athletes holding Russian and Belarusian passports will face no restrictions on entry to worldwide competitions.

"On 24 March 2026, the IHF Council accredited a gradual strategy to reintegration, efficient instantly," the IHF assertion reads.

The return of Russia and Belarus is ruled by two situations. All athletes, coaches and personnel representing Russia or Belarus are required to signal a declaration confirming no ties to army constructions or state safety our bodies. Representatives of the Russian and Belarusian nationwide groups should not be concerned in any ongoing worldwide conflicts.

The subsequent IHF Council assembly will happen on 6 Could 2026, at which particular steps concerning the return of Russian and Belarusian nationwide groups to the worldwide competitors system might be thought-about.

Background:

• All Russian and Belarusian nationwide groups had been suspended from tournaments following the beginning of Russia's full-scale aggression towards Ukraine in 2022. Nonetheless, worldwide associations subsequently started lifting restrictions below strain from the IOC.
• On the 2026 Paralympic Video games, Russian and Belarusian opponents participated below their very own flag and their nationwide anthem was performed throughout medal ceremonies.
• Consequently, Ukraine and a lot of different international locations boycotted the opening and shutting ceremonies of the 2026 Paralympics.

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