The return of Russian and Belarusian athletes to the Winter Olympics remains a complex and evolving process. The IOC and international federations are navigating a fragmented landscape of decisions, political pressure, and exceptions, with each federation adopting different approaches. Some sports, like skiing and figure skating, have opened the door to neutral participation, while others, like biathlon and ice hockey, maintain stricter restrictions. The situation is further complicated by ongoing political debates and the IOC's efforts to balance principles with geopolitical realities.

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has allocated €770,000 in grants to 21 International Federations and International Organisations of Sport for the Disabled, focusing on technical official training across 26 para sports. This initiative aims to enhance technical and organizational capacity, ensuring consistent standards and sustainable development within the Paralympic Movement, aligning with a broader strategy to build robust structures beyond Games and support balanced global growth.

Despite the International Paralympic Committee's (IPC) decision to lift suspensions on Russian and Belarusian National Paralympic Committees, several federations, including the International Ski and Snowboard Federation and {178.names.en}, have maintained their bans. This means athletes from these countries are unlikely to compete in the upcoming Milano Cortina Paralympics. The IPC's decision, made in September, to restore full membership rights was met with concern from numerous countries. While the IPC is optimistic about the 2026 Winter Paralympics, federations' actions limit participation. The Games are set for March 2026.

The IOC has announced the 15 finalists for the 2025 Climate Action Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations transforming the relationship between sport and the environment. Finalists include athletes like Rhydian Cowley and organizations like the British Olympic Association and IFs such as the International Biathlon Union.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced the 15 finalists for the Climate Action Awards 2025, recognizing initiatives in sustainability across the Olympic Movement. The awards, supported by Deloitte, include finalists from athletes, National Olympic Committees (NOCs), and International Federations (IFs) for their impactful projects. Winners will be announced before the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.