In July the federations split onto different tracks. The ISU is clearing Russian figure skaters as neutrals, while the IBU publicly confirms its 2022 decision still stands. For the 2026/27 World Cup that means the same start lists fans already know.
The IBU position
The union “took note” of IOC guidance but stressed that its stance is unchanged. Ukrainian athletes also sent the IOC a protest against broader softening. For biathlon viewers the practical effect matters more — Norwegian, French and German blocks stay the broadcast core without an eastern-European return.
What to watch next
While leaders finish control races and altitude blocks, the World Cup calendar is being built without IBU political surprises. Any new statement will come from the union’s council, not from another sport’s press release. For this season that is clarity: prepare for the athletes already on camp lists.
