LAUSANNE, Switzerland (AP) – Russia has been banned from all international skating events as more sporting sanctions were imposed on Tuesday following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
A day after Russian teams were banned from soccer, rugby and hockey, President Vladimir Putin’s favorite sport – decisions backed by the International Olympic Committee – the decision by the International Skating Union ousts Russia from another sport that is very popular at home is popular.
The ISU said that until further notice, no athletes from Russia or its ally Belarus will be “allowed to be invited or participate” in their events.
“The ISU Council reaffirms its solidarity with all affected by the conflict in Ukraine and our thoughts are with the entire Ukrainian people and country,” the ISU said in a statement.
The suspension of Russian skaters means the World Figure Skating Championships later this month are expected to be held without Olympic champion Anna Shcherbakova and her teammate Kamila Valieva, who were the focus of a still unresolved doping dispute at the Winter Olympics last month.
The International Volleyball Federation said on Tuesday it had revoked Russia’s hosting rights for the men’s World Cup in August and September and will seek another host country or countries.
“Due to the war in Ukraine, it would be impossible to prepare and hold the World Championships in Russia,” said the FIVB Executive Committee.
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