A surprise figure skater has entered medal contention in the Olympic women’s competition. And a controversial one at that. Russian Adeliia Petrosian, 18, skating as a

Russia officially is banned from the 2026 Winter Olympics, but 13 athletes have qualified to compete as "neutral'' athletes. Here's how that works.

But there’s now widespread suspicion the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles will mark Russia’s full-fledged return, even as the war in Ukraine continues with little evidence it’s coming to an end anytime soon.

At least a dozen athletes will represent AIN at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Here's what it has to do with the ROC, Russia and the country's doping scandal.

Nikita Filippov of Russia won the first medal for Individual And Neutral athletes ("AIN") on Feb. 29, at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

The IOC banned Russia from participating because it violated Olympic rules by attempting to include Ukrainian sports organizations as members of the Russian team following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Belarus was banned for supporting Russia's war actions in Ukraine.

Paolo Zampolli, a special envoy for President Trump, endorsed Russia’s participation at next month’s Paralympics, a move greeted with dismay in European capitals.

Russian athletes will compete under their own flag at the Paralympics for the first time in over a decade, despite an Olympic ban. Here's why. (AP Photo)

The two countries had been banned following the invasion of Ukraine, but had their rights restored last year.