World Aquatics has lifted its ban on Russian and Belarusian swimmers, allowing them to compete under their own flags and anthems at senior competitions. The governing body's bureau made the decision in consultation with the Aquatics Integrity Unit and the World Aquatics Athletes' Committee. The change marks a significant shift from the neutrality requirements imposed following the conflict in Ukraine.

Athletes from both countries must first pass at least four successive anti-doping controls and complete background checks before being eligible to compete. The International Testing Agency will conduct the testing in partnership with AQIU. This requirement applies only to senior athletes, with no mention of how the change affects junior competitors.

The move aligns World Aquatics with the International Paralympic Committee, which admitted Russian and Belarusian athletes under their national flag at the recent Milan-Cortina Games. FIFA president Gianni Infantino suggested in February that football's governing body would consider lifting its ban on Russia, a proposal Ukraine sports minister Matvii Bidnyi described as "irresponsible" and "infantile."