Russia Returns to European Rhythmic Gymnastics Championship Under National Flag and Anthem

Russia will compete at the 2026 European Rhythmic Gymnastics Championship in Bulgaria starting May 27, marking the first time in five years that the Russian national team will participate in a major international tournament under the national flag and anthem. The championship, held in Varna from May 27-31, brings together 362 gymnasts from 43 countries, with 254 competing at the professional level and 108 in amateur competitions. Russia's professional team includes Maria Borisova and Sofia Ilteryakova in individual exercises, while the group exercises team comprises Arina Lysenko, Nelli Reutskaya, Nikol Andronchik, Daria Melnik, Alyona Seliverstova, and Alina Proshchalykina. The youth team features Yana Zaikina, Ksenia Savinova, Eva Chevtayeva, and Alesya Naifonova as substitute.

Russia's return to international competition under its own colors follows a decision by the World Gymnastics Executive Committee on May 18 to lift previously imposed restrictions on Russian athletes. European Gymnastics subsequently announced its own decision to lift restrictions by May 24, allowing Russian participation. This aligns with December 2025 recommendations from the International Olympic Committee Executive Board that permitted athletes from Russia and Belarus to compete in youth disciplines under national flags and anthems across international sports federations.

The last time Russia competed under the national flag at a major rhythmic gymnastics tournament was at the 2021 European Championships, also held in Bulgaria. At that competition, the Russian team dominated the medal standings with nine gold, two silver, and two bronze medals. Notable performers included Dina Averina, who won four gold medals, and Arina Averina, who captured three gold medals. The 2026 European Championship serves as a qualifying tournament for the World Championships in Frankfurt-am-Main scheduled for mid-August, with countries placing athletes in the top-12 in individual all-around eligible to submit multiple candidates.