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28 Nov 2025

IOC clears Belarus’ Safonova for Olympic Games

IOC clears Belarus’ Safonova for Olympic Games
Viktoriia Safonova. An archive photo

MINSK, 28 November (BelTA) - The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has confirmed the eligibility of Belarusian figure skater Viktoriia Safonova to compete at the 2026 Olympic Games with neutral status, BelTA learned from the IOC's press service.

In September, Viktoriia Safonova finished fourth at a qualifying tournament in Beijing, securing an Olympic quota place. Following this, the athlete had to await a decision from a special IOC commission for Olympic eligibility, which has now proven positive. The IOC had previously stated that Belarusian and Russian athletes could participate in the Games provided they meet a number of criteria.

At the previous Olympic Games in China, Viktoriia Safonova placed 13th in the women’s singles figure skating. The 2026 Olympic Games will be held in Italy on 6-22 February 2026.

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