IBA allows return of Russian, Belarus boxers with flags and anthems

The IBA, led by Russian businessman Umar Kremlev, last month suspended Ukraine ahead of a meeting that decided not to hold a fresh presidential election

BAN LIFTED: The Russian-led International Boxing Association (IBA) on Wednesday cancelled a ban on amateur boxers from Russia and Belarus. File pic: David Maher/Sportsfile

The Russian-led International Boxing Association (IBA) on Wednesday cancelled a ban on amateur boxers from Russia and Belarus and said it would allow them to compete with national flags and anthems in events with immediate effect.

The world governing body, which is at odds with Olympic organisers, said in a statement that its board of directors had voted in favour of the change.