Steering Committee of the International University Sports Federation (FISU) met on March 12, condemning the Russian invasion of Ukraine, facilitated by Belarus, and its impact on the Ukrainian people, including the Ukrainian university sports community.  

The FISU Steering Committee deplored the continued suffering in Ukraine, especially among civilians, and added its voice to the international calls for an end to hostilities.

It was confirmed that Russian and Belarusian athletes, together with national university sports federation officials, will not participate in FISU competitions and activities until at least the end of 2022.  

Two FISU University World Cups in Russia and a FISU World University Championships in Belarus, scheduled for 2022, had previously been cancelled. The FISU Steering Committee further confirmed that the FISU University World Cup Combat Sports and associated meetings, also scheduled for 2022, will no longer be held in Russia. Any alternative arrangements will be communicated in due course.  

While committing to continuing FISU’s constant review of the situation in Ukraine, the FISU Steering Community also established a significant and dedicated fund to provide financial support to the Ukrainian university sports community. The fund will primarily be used for humanitarian support and to assist Ukrainian participation in this year’s FISU competitions and activities where possible.

For more information, please see www.fisu.net.