Russian Junior Rhythmic Gymnasts Sidelined from 2026 European Cup Due to Bureaucratic Delays
10:08 27.04.2026 (Updated: 10:26 27.04.2026)
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Russian junior rhythmic gymnasts sidelined from the 2026 European Cup due to bureaucratic delays
The Russian Gymnastics Federation submitted neutral status applications for 8 athletes in late March and repeatedly requested expedited approval. However, approvals only came after the registration deadline and draw had already passed.
European Gymnastics refused late entry, despite the athletes meeting all requirements.This contradicts the IOC’s December 2025 statement that “youth athletes with Russian or Belarusian passports should no longer face restrictions” in international youth competitions.
Months of preparation wasted due to administrative obstacles and slow processing by World & European Gymnastics.
Subscribe to @SputnikInt
The Russian Gymnastics Federation submitted neutral status applications for 8 athletes in late March and repeatedly requested expedited approval. However, approvals only came after the registration deadline and draw had already passed.
European Gymnastics refused late entry, despite the athletes meeting all requirements.This contradicts the IOC’s December 2025 statement that “youth athletes with Russian or Belarusian passports should no longer face restrictions” in international youth competitions.
Months of preparation wasted due to administrative obstacles and slow processing by World & European Gymnastics.
Subscribe to @SputnikInt
