Russia Makes Push for LA 2028 Comeback

One of the key figures behind diplomatic efforts that secured Russian swimmers' return to elite competition at the ongoing World Aquatics Championships in Singapore is now hoping to end the country's sporting neutrality, as officials push for wider Olympic participation.

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LONDON –

The Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) was banned for violating the Olympic Charter in relation to the country's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, but some of its athletes competed as neutrals at the 2024 Paris Olympics and sports such as swimming are gradually welcoming more Russians back into the fold.

Dmitry Mazepin, president of the Russian Aquatics Federation and vice-president of the ROC, said he would do his best to ensure that Russian athletes compete under their national flag in time for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics and urged the sporting community to end double standards.