Sweden explores visa restrictions for Russian and Belarusian athletes despite neutral status
Sweden is examining legal grounds to deny visas to Russian and Belarusian athletes competing in international sporting events on its territory, even if they have been cleared to participate under a neutral status, Reuters reported, citing Migration Minister Johan Forssell.
"We are currently analyzing the legal grounds on which visas could be denied to Russian and Belarusian athletes," Forssell said.
He added that the Swedish government strongly opposes allowing athletes from the two countries to participate in international competitions, warning that their presence risks normalizing Russia's aggression against Ukraine.
The issue is particularly relevant ahead of the 2027 Nordic World Ski Championships, scheduled to take place in Falun, Sweden, from February 24 to March 7.
The Swedish Ski Association and the Swedish Sports Confederation support the government's position, but any decision on visa restrictions rests with Swedish authorities.
No restrictions have been introduced so far, and it remains unclear whether Sweden will find legal grounds to deny entry to athletes approved by international sports federations.