The term AIN refers to “Athletes Individuels Neutres,” or “Individual Neutral Athletes” in English. This classification applies solely to athletes from Russia and Belarus participating in international competitions, including the Olympic Games.
Overview of Individual Neutral Athletes
The AIN designation was introduced for the 2024 Paris Olympics and will also be observed during the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina. This initiative arises from the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) response to geopolitical tensions and the breach of the Olympic truce.
Participation Statistics
- 2024 Paris Olympics: 32 athletes competed as AIN.
- 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics: 20 athletes are expected to follow.
After Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the IOC banned athletes representing these countries from the Olympics. AIN athletes cannot display national symbols, including flags and anthems, during the games. They also do not participate in the Parade of Nations at the Opening Ceremony.
Qualification Criteria for AIN Athletes
To qualify as an AIN athlete, competitors must meet specific criteria:
- Possess a passport from Russia or Belarus.
- Must not have publicly supported the war in Ukraine.
- No affiliation with the military of either country.
- Qualify for their events through standard pathways.
- Compete exclusively in individual events; team events are not permitted.
While the IOC allows participation under the AIN category, individual sport federations may impose additional restrictions. For example, the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation does not allow Russian or Belarusian athletes to qualify as neutrals.
The AIN initiative emphasizes the complexities surrounding international sports and geopolitics, highlighting the delicate balance between athletic competition and national representation.
