Estonia Bars Russian and Belarusian Athletes from Competitions
Estonia has barred Russian and Belarusian athletes from competing in sporting events held on its territory amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.
The Estonian Ministry of Culture informed the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) of the decision in a letter on Friday, 13 November 2026.
The ministry stated that competitions involving athletes from Russia and Belarus cannot take place in Estonia.
It said allowing their participation would conflict with the country’s strong support for Ukraine and could be used for propaganda purposes.
Estonia joined Norway, Finland and Canada in imposing similar restrictions.
The move follows the FIS decision in September to ease rules, permitting Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete as neutral individuals in individual events after signing a neutrality declaration.
Estonia will not host a Cross-Country Skiing World Cup event this winter season, though junior and biathlon championships are still scheduled in Otepää.
By Oyinkansola Shittu.
