The FIA has lifted restrictions on Russian and Belarusian drivers
The World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) has lifted restrictions on Russian and Belarusian drivers in international competitions. They will now be able to compete under their countries’ flags, use their national colors and anthems, and will no longer be required to maintain neutral status.
The World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) has adopted a decision that restores the ability of Russian and Belarusian athletes to fully represent their countries on the international stage. From now on, drivers from Russia and Belarus are no longer required to compete under neutral status. They will be able to use their countries’ flags, colors, and other national symbols during competitions.
It is also permitted to play the national anthem during races in the event of a victory by a Russian or Belarusian driver. In other words, athletes from these countries have effectively regained the ability to openly represent Russia and Belarus during international motorsports competitions.
What Remains Prohibited for Now
At the same time, the WMSC’s decision does not mean the complete lifting of all restrictions on Russia and Belarus. Hosting international motorsport competitions on the territory of Russia and Belarus is still not permitted. In other words, Russian and Belarusian drivers can compete on international circuits and use their countries’ symbols, but international competitions themselves cannot be held on the territory of these countries.
The World Motor Sport Council’s decision has already taken effect. As a result, Russian and Belarusian athletes now have significantly more opportunities to participate in international motorsports than they did under the previous rules. This is stated in an official FIA circular.
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