All wrestlers from Russia and Belarus will now compete under the flag of the World Wrestling Federation (UWW), the headquarters officially announced, BTA reported.
The UWW Bureau, which met on February 5, gave the green light for wrestlers from the two countries, who previously competed under a neutral flag as individual athletes, to start under the UWW flag. This decision comes into effect immediately and includes coaches and all members of the sports staffs of both countries.
"However, the UWW anthem will continue to sound for the ceremonies, without reference to the flag, symbols or coat of arms of Russia and Belarus," the statement said. In addition, the team rankings of these two countries will not be considered in any championship.