Russian luge sliders remain banned from international events, the ruling body FIL has decided, joining several other sports in snubbing a recommendation of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to allow them back. The FIL congress in Bucharest voted 22-1 in favor of continuing the ban, with five abstentions. FIL said the ban will remain in place "as long as the belligerent activities in Ukraine as the reason for this measure continue.” Russian and Belarusian athletes and officials were banned from most sporting events after the start of Russia's invasion of Ukraine last year. But now the IOC has recommended to allow them back, as neutral athletes and under strict conditions.
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