Ukrainian Sports Minister Responds to Russian and Belarusian Athletes Securing 20 Olympic Licenses for 2026

Statement from Ukraine's Minister for Youth and Sports

According to Главком: Matvii Bidnyi, Ukraine's Minister for Youth and Sports, has issued a statement regarding the approximately 20 Olympic licenses secured by Russian and Belarusian athletes for the 2026 Games. He asserted that this development indicates the international sporting community is aware of its responsibilities in light of current global events. Bidnyi emphasized that Ukraine's own results are significant, especially when compared to the number of Russian and Belarusian athletes who participated in previous Olympic Games.

The 2026 Winter Olympics will be held from February 6 to 22 in Milan and Cortina, Italy. For context, at the 2022 Winter Olympics, Russia was represented by 212 athletes and Belarus by 29. Ukraine's official delegation for the 2026 event will consist of 103 people, including:

• 46 athletes
• 42 coaches and technical staff
• 15 team management members

Ukraine's Sporting Disciplines and Participation

Team Ukraine will compete across 11 sports disciplines, with representation in:

• Biathlon (10 athletes)
• Alpine Skiing (2)
• Nordic Combined (2)
• Cross-Country Skiing (6)
• Luge (10)
• Skeleton (1)
• Snowboarding (1)
• Ski Jumping (2)
• Freestyle Skiing (9)
• Figure Skating (1)
• Short Track Speed Skating (2)

According to Minister Bidnyi, the performance of the Ukrainian delegation showcases the collective work and effort being made on the international stage.

The 2026 Olympics will be a significant event amid contemporary geopolitical challenges, particularly for Ukraine as it continues to demonstrate its sporting strength and unity. The participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes under a neutral banner has sparked ongoing international debate about sports policy and fairness during times of conflict. Despite facing difficult circumstances, the Ukrainian delegation aims to achieve high results, reflecting the nation's resilience and pursuit of peace through sport.