Russian athletes are gradually being reintegrated into international winter sports competitions as Individual Neutral Athletes (AINs). Several lugers and ski mountaineers have received approval to compete, including Nikita Fillipov for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. However, the process has been complex, with some athletes initially approved having their status revoked due to concerns over neutrality. The International Luge Federation (FIL) and the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) have been involved in the eligibility decisions, with CAS overturning FIL's initial ban. The return of Russian athletes remains controversial, with Ukrainian athletes voicing concerns about their neutrality.

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.

The CEO of Milano Cortina 2026, Andrea Varnier, confirmed that bobsleigh, skeleton, and luge events will be held in Cortina d'Ampezzo following successful pre-homologation of the new sliding track. The track, rebuilt in 300 days, received praise from the IBSF and ILF. Official approval is expected by the end of summer 2025, with international training and test events scheduled for November 2025. Varnier acknowledged Lake Placid's support as an alternative venue during the planning phase.

The Cortina d'Ampezzo sliding track for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games is undergoing testing after construction was completed on March 16. 60 athletes, along with 26 coaches and officials from the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation, the 국제루지연맹, and the 국제올림픽위원회, are present to evaluate the track. Security has been heightened following a sabotage incident. The track's completion averts the IOC's Plan B to move sliding sports to Lake Placid. Mattia Gaspari was the first to test the track. The construction faced controversy over tree removal and financial concerns, but the government decided to proceed. Cortina will also host women’s Alpine skiing and curling, with pre-fabricated mobile homes set up for the Athletes' Village. The Winter Olympics will take place from February 6-22, 2026, followed by the Paralympics from March 6-15.