The World Aquatics Federation has officially allowed so-called “neutral athletes” from the aggressor country to participate in all water polo competitions, including team events.
This is stated in an official letter from World Aquatics Executive Director Brent Nowicki dated November 3, 2025, addressed to national federations.
According to the document, the updated Rules of Participation, which will come into force on January 1, 2026, also apply to all continental competitions, any World Aquatics events and qualifying tournaments for the World Championships and the Olympic Games.
President of the Ukrainian Water Polo Federation Oleksandr Svishchov strongly condemned the decision.
“We are appalled and deeply shocked by the decision of World Aquatics to allow so-called “neutral athletes” from the aggressor country to participate in water polo competitions. This is not just a blow to the principles of justice and sports ethics – it is a cynical disregard for common sense and the memory of war victims,” Svishchov said.
He emphasized that this decision is a de facto legalization of the return of Russian sport, bypassing justice. The Water Polo Federation of Ukraine plans to appeal to all relevant international bodies to demand the complete reversal of this decision.
