FIA backtracks and lifts restrictions on Russians in competitions

A FIA (International Automobile Federation) lifted restrictions that prevented drivers, teams and officials from Russia and Belarus from using national symbols in competitions under their jurisdiction. The announcement was made on Thursday (13 August 2026), after the decision of the WMSC (World Motor Sport Council) on 3 August. Read the complete of the document (PDF – 149 kB, in English).

With the measure, competitors from both countries can compete in FIA events with their flags, colors, symbols and national anthems. The restrictions had been adopted in February 2022, in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Until then, Russians and Belarusians had to compete under a neutral flag and could not display national symbols on uniforms, equipment or cars.

The FIA, however, maintained the ban on holding international or regional competitions in the territories of Russia and Belarus. The measure prevents, for now, the return of international tests to the 2 countries. Russia hosted Formula 1 stages from 2014 to 2021, at the Sochi International Circuit.

The federation did not explain the reasons for the change. The statement reproduced an excerpt from the WMSC decision, which determines the suspension of restrictions on the participation of Russian and Belarusian pilots, national teams, individual competitors and officials, in addition to limitations on symbols, colors, flags and anthems.

The participation of Russians and Belarusians in competitions held abroad will continue to be subject to the laws of each host country. The FIA ​​stated that it will continue to monitor the situation in Ukraine and may adopt new measures. Since 2023, some Russian drivers have competed under a neutral flag, including Daniil Kvyat, in the WEC (World Endurance Championship), and Nikita Mazepin, in the Asian Le Mans Series.