Belarusian fencer to take part in World Championships under neutral flag

July 7, BPN. Organizers of the World Fencing Championships have allowed eight Russians and one Belarusian to compete as neutrals in Milan from July 22 to July 30, amid criticism from Ukrainian fencing officials, Suspilne reports.

The move opens up opportunities for Belarusian épée fencer Marjana Marusienka, who ranked third among women in the national Tournament of the Strongest last year.

Vital Sakałoŭski, acting chair of the Belarusian Fencing Federation, did not expect Belarusians to be admitted to the championships in Italy, according to his interview last month.

The European Fencing Confederation (EFC) suspended the membership of the Belarusian and Russian national federations at the request of the National Fencing Federation of Ukraine.

In late March 2023, the IOC said that Belarusian and Russian athletes could be admitted to international competitions under a neutral flag, provided that they are not actively involved in supporting military operations and are not linked to the military.