Kamila Valieva Barred from International Competition as Neutral Athlete

South Bend Elkhart, IN, September 5, 2026 —

Kamila Valieva, a prominent Russian figure skater, has reportedly had her authorization to compete on the international stage revoked. The decision, according to an Associated Press source, pertains to her status as a neutral athlete and is linked to concerns regarding potential support for the war in Ukraine. This development further complicates Valieva’s competitive future, following a previous doping ban that had already limited her participation.

The revocation of her permission to compete as a neutral athlete means Valieva will be unable to participate in international events under this designation. The specifics of the concerns about her potential support for the war in Ukraine were not detailed in the report. This situation adds another layer of scrutiny to her career, which has previously been under intense focus due to an earlier doping controversy.

The International Skating Union (ISU) is scheduled to address appeals related to this matter. According to the report, the ISU is expected to issue rulings on appeals submitted not only by Valieva but also by another Russian skater, Mark Kondratiuk. These rulings are anticipated next week, and their outcome will determine the immediate competitive prospects for both athletes.

Valieva’s previous doping ban had already placed restrictions on her international presence. The current decision, stemming from broader geopolitical concerns, signifies a new challenge to her ability to compete internationally, even under neutral status. The status of Russian athletes in international sports has been a subject of ongoing debate and decisions by various sporting federations since the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine.

Story summarized from the original created by AP on apnews.com, see more information here.