Lausanne, Switzerland — 11 July 2025
The International Fencing Federation (FIE) has authorised the participation of individual neutral athletes (AIN) in its official competitions, in line with the principles of the Olympic Charter and the FIE’s Statutes. This decision underscores the Federation’s commitment to peace, fairness, and the global unity of sport.
Fair Participation for Neutral Athletes
Neutral athletes who meet eligibility criteria are allowed to participate in all FIE competitions, including in the recent and coming FIE major events:
- The 2025 Junior & Cadet World Championships
- The 2025 Senior World Championships
Conditions for participation include:
- A sworn declaration of neutrality,
- A commitment to adhere to and to support the peace mission of the FIE and of the Olympic Movement,
- A commitment to respect all FIE rules, Statutes and Directives
- Representation under the neutral “AIN” designation, use of the FIE flag and anthem.
Oversight and Accountability
All applications are subject to a review by the FIE Eligibility Review Group and to the approval of the FIE Executive Committee. Any breach of neutrality principles by the applicants will lead to:
- Revocation of neutral status,
- Exclusion from events, and
- Potential further sanctions in accordance with FIE regulations.
FIE Executive Committee Statement:
“Our approach is guided by our duty to protect athletes and preserve the integrity of competition. It is firmly anchored in the Olympic Charter and in our mission to safeguard the values of fencing.”
Athletes Deserve Protection, Not Penalties
The FIE recognises that many athletes today are caught in situations they neither caused nor control. The FIE’s policy aims to ensure that:
- No athlete is excluded unfairly,
- All athletes are treated with equity,
- Sport remains a space for hope, not hostility.
Sport has historically served as a powerful means of reconciliation and understanding.
The FIE’s decision responds to a shared belief that athletes must not bear the consequences of geopolitical events beyond their control while reflecting the spirit of guidance offered by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
The FIE believes that fencing must continue to unite — not divide — and that every athlete who embraces peace deserves a place in our family.