As the conflict in Ukraine continues, Finland and Norway are tightening restrictions on Russian athletes, preventing them from participating in international sporting events within their borders. These measures reflect increasing international scrutiny of Russia’s involvement in sports amid the ongoing war.
Finland’s new restrictions, effective from November 16, will impose stricter visa and entry rules for Russian athletes, including those competing under a neutral status. According to Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen, professional sports will no longer be an acceptable reason for short-term entry, regardless of whether athletes travel directly from Russia or through another Schengen country. Valtonen has criticized Russia for allegedly using sports as a propaganda tool, asserting that Russian athletes should not compete in Finland while hostilities persist.
Norway has also issued directives to its immigration authorities and police to bar Russian and Belarusian professional athletes and their support staff from entering the country for sporting competitions. These restrictions are expected to be implemented soon and will impact major international events like the cross-country skiing World Cup in Trondheim in December and the Figure Skating World Championships in Tampere in March 2027. The International Skating Union is currently seeking clarification from Finnish organizers on how these new restrictions will affect upcoming events.
The moves by Finland and Norway challenge the stance of some international sports federations that have allowed Russian and Belarusian athletes to participate under neutral status. In response, Ukraine has welcomed Finland’s decision and is urging other European nations to adopt similar measures to further isolate Russia in the international sports arena.