Three Russian lugers will compete in this weekend's Lake Placid World Cup, while three others have had their International Neutral Athlete (AIN) status revoked due to concerns over their neutrality. The International Luge Federation (FIL) made the decision after reviewing the athletes' eligibility, citing "new and previously unknown facts." This follows a recent Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruling that lifted the ban on Russian and Belarusian athletes meeting AIN criteria. The FIL initially banned Russian athletes in 2022 following the invasion of Ukraine, but Russia has challenged these decisions legally.

The International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF) has reaffirmed its stance barring Russian athletes from participating in team competitions like two-man and four-man bobsleigh, even under neutral status. This contrasts with policies in sports like rowing and canoeing, where Russian athletes are permitted to compete in crews. The decision follows recent developments including a court ruling questioning the original ban and the IOC's recommendation for young athletes. Meanwhile, the International Luge Federation has withdrawn eligibility for three Russian athletes from an upcoming World Cup event due to neutrality concerns. The situation highlights the ongoing complexities surrounding Russian athlete participation in international sports amid the war in Ukraine.

Following a thaw in relations between Russia and the IOC, Russian luge athletes are expected to compete in Lake Placid next week, sparking strong condemnation from Ukrainian athletes who argue it violates principles of neutrality amidst the ongoing war. This move, facilitated by the International Luge Federation and supported by Russian officials, comes as other federations consider allowing Russian athletes in bobsleigh and skeleton. The situation highlights a growing divide, with Ukrainian athletes expressing concerns about safety and fair play, while Russia aims for a gradual return to international competition. The IOC's stance of allowing 'Individual Neutral Athletes' has created a complex landscape, with federations making divergent decisions and Ukrainian officials raising concerns about the neutrality of some Russian athletes, including figure skaters. The situation is further complicated by the recent change of nationality by Ukrainian athlete Sofiia Lyskun.

After a protracted legal battle and political hurdles, Russia's luge team has secured visas to compete in the second round of the International Luge Federation (FIL) World Cup in Park City, Utah. This follows a recent Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruling overturning the FIL's earlier prohibition. The move signifies a step towards reintegrating Russian athletes into international competition, though challenges remain, including ongoing disputes with the International Ski Federation (FIS) and the International Luge Federation regarding qualification for the 2026 Winter Olympics. The Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) and Minister of Sport Mikhail Degtyarev played a key role in securing the visas.

The Russian Olympic Committee is preparing for the 2026 Winter Olympics, with potentially 15-20 neutral athletes from Russia and Belarus. The International Olympic Committee has confirmed eligibility for some athletes, including figure skaters. However, the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation, the International Ski and Snowboard Federation, and the International Luge Federation have not allowed neutral athletes to participate. The International Skating Union has opened pathways, while the International Ski Mountaineering Federation opened qualification pathways in December.