Russian bobsledders and skeletonists will not be allowed to the 2026 Olympics: IBSF decision

According to glavcom.ua: The International Bobsleigh Federation joined other sports that had already barred Russian athletes from participation in pre-Olympic qualifiers. Before this decision, Russian hockey players, curlers, sliders, and biathletes were also unable to participate in the 2026 Olympics. There is still no final decision regarding the ski federation.

At the congress of the International Bobsleigh Federation, a vote was held to deprive Russian athletes of the right to participate in the pre-Olympic qualification competitions for the 2025/26 season. Nine members voted for this decision, six abstained, and 34 were against. Thus, representatives of Russia will not have the opportunity to participate in bobsleigh and skeleton competitions.

During the congress of the International Bobsleigh Federation, the decision was made to deprive Russian athletes of the right to participate in the pre-Olympic qualification competitions for the upcoming season. This decision concerns not only bobsleigh but also skeleton, which adds additional commentary and attention to the qualification process for the Olympic Games.