Sebastian Coe: World Athletics Will Not Readmit Russian and Belarusian Athletes

Sebastian Coe: World Athletics Will Not Readmit Russian and Belarusian Athletes AI

World Athletics president Sebastian Coe told Suspilne Sport on 10 September 2026, ahead of the 2026 World Championships, that the federation currently has no plans to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes back into international competition, answering the question unequivocally. A clear statement from World Athletics matters for Kyiv track-and-field followers and athletes as the championships approach and selection questions persist.

Sebastian Coe, president of World Athletics, told Suspilne Sport on 10 September 2026 that the federation does not plan to readmit athletes from Russia and Belarus to international competitions. The comment was made in an exclusive interview published by Suspilne Sport shortly before the start of the 2026 World Championships.

Coe’s reply was described as unequivocal: he answered directly when asked about the possible return of Russian and Belarusian competitors. Suspilne Sport reported the exchange on 10 September 2026. Readers should watch for any future statements from World Athletics if policies change, but as of this report the federation’s position remains one of non-admission.

Know what Kyiv knows.