Russia to host first Olympic federation world event since Ukraine invasion
The International Weightlifting Federation has awarded the 2030 World Weightlifting Championships to Moscow, marking the first time an Olympic federation has hosted a global event in Russia since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. This decision follows the IOC's move to lift the suspension on the Russian Olympic Committee, potentially allowing Russian athletes to compete in future Games.
Why it matters
This decision signals a potential shift in the international sports community's stance toward Russia, sparking debate over the intersection of global politics and athletic competition.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Weightlifting was first included as an Olympic sport in the 1896 Games in Athens
Moscow will host the 2030 World Weightlifting Championships - the first time an Olympic federation has chosen to stage a global event in Russia since the country's invasion of Ukraine began in 2022.
The International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) announced its decision on Sunday, four months after confirming Russian athletes would again be eligible to compete in its events.
In July, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) provisionally lifted a suspension on the Russian Olympic Committee.
That suspension had been imposed following the country's invasion of Ukraine.
The IOC's subsequent decision potentially opened the way for Russian athletes to compete for their country at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
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