Latvia Bans Russian Athletes from Entering Country
Latvia's Foreign Minister, Baiba Braže, announced on December 25, 2025, an indefinite entry ban for 14 Russian athletes. This decision comes just weeks before a Luge World Cup stage is set to take place in Sigulda, Latvia, on January 3 and 4, 2026. The ban effectively prevents these athletes from participating in the international competition.
Minister Braže stated that 'athletes from the aggressor state are not welcome in Latvia,' reflecting the nation's firm stance following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The ban was implemented in accordance with Article 61.2 of the Immigration Law, which grants the Minister of Foreign Affairs the authority to declare a foreign national an undesirable person, or 'persona non grata,' in Latvia.
Context of the Ban and International Regulations
The decision by Latvia's Foreign Minister directly challenges recent rulings by international sports organizations. The International Luge Federation (FIL) had previously indicated that 'neutral athletes' from Russia would be permitted to compete in its events. Furthermore, in October, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruled that individual Russian athletes could participate as neutral competitors, provided they met specific criteria.
However, Latvian authorities have maintained a consistent position against the participation of Russian athletes. The President of the Latvian Luge Federation (LKSF), Klāvs Vasks, expressed in November that while the LKSF respects the CAS decision, it strongly opposes the involvement of Russian athletes in any capacity in World Cup competitions or the Olympic Games. Vasks highlighted that existing Latvian legislation prohibits both neutral and Russian athletes from competing on Latvian soil.
Implications for the Sigulda World Cup
The upcoming Luge World Cup stage in Sigulda is now directly impacted by this ban. The 14 Russian athletes, whose identities have not been publicly disclosed, will be unable to enter Latvia to compete. This situation underscores the ongoing tension between national policies and international sports governance regarding the participation of Russian athletes in global events. The indefinite nature of the ban signifies a long-term commitment by Latvia to its current policy.
10 Comments
Coccinella
This is just performative. It only hurts the athletes, not the regime.
Muchacho
The decision to ban Russian athletes sends a powerful symbolic message of solidarity with Ukraine, which is important. However, I wonder if this indefinite ban truly impacts the Russian government, or if it primarily punishes individuals and isolates the sporting community.
ZmeeLove
Latvia shows true leadership. Sports are not above politics when war is raging.
Habibi
Sports should be separate from politics. This sets a bad precedent.
Muchacho
Finally, some backbone! Support Ukraine, ban the aggressors.
dedus mopedus
On one hand, 'persona non grata' status is a strong diplomatic tool to express disapproval of state actions. On the other hand, denying entry to athletes who might compete as neutrals seems to go against the spirit of international competition and peace through sport.
Noir Black
Excellent! No place for aggressor nations' athletes here.
KittyKat
What about the CAS ruling? Latvia is overstepping its bounds.
Katchuka
Unfair to the athletes! They shouldn't be penalized for politics.
Loubianka
I fully support nations standing up to aggression, and Latvia is well within its rights to protect its borders. Yet, we need to consider the long-term implications for sports as a neutral ground; if every nation takes such a unilateral stance, international events become impossible.