OREANDA-NEWS  The World Boxing Association (WBA) has restored Russian and Belarusian athletes in its rankings. This is reported on the organization's website.

"Athletes from this country are not soldiers or part of the government, so they have nothing to do with any ongoing conflict," the WBA said in a statement. At the same time, the organization noted that boxers who speak out in support of a special military operation will be suspended from the competition.

In March, the WBA excluded Russians and Belarusians from its rating lists, retaining the statuses for the current world champions or individual regions. Also, the organization, together with the World Boxing Council (WBC), the World Boxing Organization (WBO) and the International Boxing Federation (IBF), refused to recognize or approve fights in Russia.

At the same time, the International Boxing Association (IBA), whose president is Russian Umar Kremlev, allowed boxers from Russia and Belarus to participate in international competitions under the auspices of the organization. Athletes will perform under national flags. In case of their victory, the national anthem will be performed.