The Boston Marathon is being held in the northeastern U.S. city on April 18 with no runners from Russia or Belarus among the 28,000 participants.
The two countries were disinvited in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, while runners from Ukraine who were unable to make it to Boston were offered a deferral or refund.
“Like so many around the world, we are horrified and outraged by what we have seen and learned from the reporting in Ukraine,” Boston Athletic Association President Tom Grilk said in a statement announcing the decision to disinvite Russians and Belarusians. “We believe that running is a global sport, and as such, we must do what we can to show our support to the people of Ukraine.”
The association said it would not recognize the country affiliation or flag of Russia or Belarus "until further notice" but would attempt to refund athletes from Russia or Belarus who were barred. The policy allows Russian and Belarusian citizens who are not residents of either country to compete.
Grilk was quoted on April 18 as saying that Ukrainian athletes who could not make it to this year's event can run next year if they wish, adding that the association is willing to assist them in whatever way they need.
“There is no group we want to be more helpful to,” Grilk said.