Russia to host first Olympic federation world event since Ukraine invasion

The International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) has selected Russia to host a world championships, marking the first time an Olympic federation has chosen the country for such an event since its invasion of Ukraine. The decision is a significant step for Russia, which has been largely isolated from international sports since February 2022. The IWF's choice, confirmed by the federation, underscores a potential shift in the sporting world's stance toward Russia, though it may draw criticism from Ukraine and its allies. The event is expected to take place in 2026, though the exact city and dates have not yet been announced. This move could have broader implications for Russia's reintegration into global sports, as other federations may follow suit. For now, the weightlifting world will watch closely to see how this decision unfolds and whether it opens the door for more Russian-hosted events.