Nikita Filippov of Russia won the first medal for Individual And Neutral athletes ("AIN") on Feb. 29, at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

The IOC banned Russia from participating because it violated Olympic rules by attempting to include Ukrainian sports organizations as members of the Russian team following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Belarus was banned for supporting Russia's war actions in Ukraine.

A surprise figure skater has entered medal contention in the Olympic women’s competition. And a controversial one at that. Russian Adeliia Petrosian, 18, skating as a

There are athletes with Russian and Belarussian passports competing at the Olympics as "Individual Neutral Athletes," if they meet some conditions.

But there’s now widespread suspicion the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles will mark Russia’s full-fledged return, even as the war in Ukraine continues with little evidence it’s coming to an end anytime soon.

MILAN (AP) — It's not often that the second figure skater on the ice in a Winter Olympic competition is must-see viewing. Adeliia Petrosian is different. The 18-year-old Russian had only competed in one senior event outside her homeland before Tuesday's short program,

Nearly 100 countries are represented at the 2026 Olympics. But Russia and its ally Belarus won't be in the Opening Ceremony. Here's why they're banned. (AP Photo)

A Russian woman in Milan made a quiet protest against the war by leading Ukraine’s Olympic team into the stadium