The International Weightlifting Federation has suspended all Russian and Belarusian athletes from participating in any event

The International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) joins other sports committees in suspending all athletes, team officials and technical officials from Russia and Belarus from any international or continental weightlifting event until further notice. The International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) has introduced the same procedure, which you could read in our magazine yesterday. The committees expect to provoke outrage among the Russian and Belarusian populations thereby ending the war in Ukraine.

CrossFit has introduced a similar approach to athletes, banning athletes "only" from competing under their national flags and names. Therefore, if a Russian or Belarusian CrossFitter wants to continue competing internationally, they must compete under a white "neutral" flag.

You can read the full IWF committee report below:

The International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) is deeply saddened by the situation in Ukraine and condemns Russia's invasion of Ukraine. We are mindful of the safety and well-being of all those in turmoil.

As part of the Olympic family, we are united in the Olympic Movement's mission to contribute to peace and unite the world in peaceful competition. The IWF is committed to the development and promotion of weightlifting in the spirit of the Olympic Charter and is consistent with Olympic values.We therefore strongly support the recommendations of the International Olympic Committee in response to the current crisis.

The IWF Executive Committee therefore met to discuss the developing situation and took the decision to suspend the participation of all athletes, team officials and technical officials from Russia and Belarus in any international or continental weightlifting event until further notice. In addition, and also until further notice, no IWF sanctioned events will be organised in these countries. These exceptional measures have been decided and issued in light of the extraordinary circumstances arising in Ukraine. They represent precautionary measures aimed at preserving the integrity of the sport, the relationships between our members and between all participants. They are also aimed at protecting the safety of all participants, especially those from the two countries mentioned above.

The IWF Executive Board will continue to monitor developments closely. The above exceptional measures may be adjusted and hopefully eventually lifted as and when the situation warrants.

The IWF Executive Board also approved funding to support Ukrainian athletes during this difficult time. IWF Secretary General Mr. Mohammed Jaloud is currently in contact with the Ukrainian Weightlifting Federation to provide financial and training support to athletes preparing for the World Youth, Junior and World Championships. In addition, the IWF will work with the UWF to rebuild any facilities that may have been affected.

The IWF stands behind the International Olympic Committee, the Ukrainian Olympic community and the Ukrainian weightlifting family and are committed to providing any additional humanitarian assistance necessary. On behalf of the weightlifting community, the IWF hopes that peace will be restored as soon as possible.

Source : https://iwf.sport/2022/03/03/iwf-statement/