The governing body of fencing, the International Fencing Federation (FIE), has made a historic move by allowing athletes from Russia and Belarus to take part in international competitions again, but under a neutral status. This decision marks a significant shift from a nearly year-long pause in participation that followed broader sanctions and suspensions tied to geopolitical events. The measure, reported by the portal Inside the Games, signals a careful re-entry pathway for competitors who will no longer compete under their national flags and will instead compete as neutral athletes. This approach is designed to preserve the integrity of the sport while still applying the political and ethical considerations that guided the federation and its partners during the period of heightened tensions.
