Norway refuses to host swimming events over World Aquatics' decision on Russia and Belarus athletes

The Norwegian Swimming Federation will not host international championships as long as World Aquatics (WA) ​allows athletes from Russia and Belarus to compete, ‌the country's governing body President Cato Bratbakk told Reuters.

The decision marks a deepening rift within the international swimming community after ​WA lifted neutrality restrictions last week.

"Our position is ​clear. We will not host any championships as ⁠long as Russian and Belarusian senior and junior competitors ​have full access, entry rights, and are permitted to ​use their flags and national anthems," Bratbakk said on Tuesday.

Russian and Belarusian athletes were permitted to compete in WA events with their ​respective uniforms, flags and anthems since April 14. ​The global governing body added that Russia and Belarus would resume ‌full ⁠membership rights.

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Competitors from Russia and Belarus were banned from international sporting events following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, which was launched in part from Belarusian ​territory.

Norway is now ​seeking a ⁠broader regional boycott of hosting duties.

"We are scheduled to meet with Nordic colleagues ​next week, where we hope our position ​will create ⁠momentum against the decision made by World Aquatics," Bratbakk said.

The move follows a similar stance taken by Poland ⁠on ​Friday.

The WA did not immediately respond ​to a request for comment.