FIVB lifts ban on Russian volleyball teams

The International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) has announced that Russian athletes and technical officials will be allowed to return to international volleyball competitions, in line with updated recommendations from the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

The decision reinstates Russia's national teams in FIVB group, world and official competitions and restores their position in the FIVB World Ranking with the same ranking points they held before their suspension.

FIVB said the move reflects its commitment to protecting "the fundamental right of athletes to access sport regardless of their nationality."

The federation added that decisions on the use of Russia's flag, anthem, national colors and other national symbols will be made at a later stage in consultation with relevant international sports bodies.

FIVB and the European Volleyball Confederation (CEV) will also determine the conditions governing the full participation of Russian athletes and officials.

In addition, the federation said a dedicated anti-doping testing program for Russian athletes will be introduced through the International Testing Agency in accordance with IOC recommendations.

Source:AA