Lithuania loses modern pentathlon event over restrictions on Russian, Belarusian athletes

Lithuania has lost the right to host a 2027 Modern Pentathlon World Cup event in Kaunas after the sport’s international governing body withdrew its approval over the country’s restrictions on Russian and Belarusian athletes, the Lithuanian Modern Pentathlon Federation said.

The International Union of Modern Pentathlon (UIPM) executive board decided to cancel the event, scheduled for April 13–17, at a meeting more than a week ago. The Lithuanian federation learned of the decision last Monday through a letter inviting national federations to apply to host the event.

Lithuania has maintained its position against allowing Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete in events held in the country.

“We were initially angry and disappointed because preparations are already underway and we have signed several contracts with service providers,” federation President Justinas Kinderis said.

He added that the decision was not entirely unexpected, as UIPM officials had repeatedly asked how Lithuania planned to handle Russian and Belarusian athletes.

Kinderis said the federation had hoped its experience organising international championships and winning medals would be taken into greater consideration.

In a letter signed by UIPM President Rob Stull, the governing body said it must follow recommendations approved this year by the International Olympic Committee. The recommendations would allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under their national flags and symbols and ensure equal opportunities to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Kinderis argued that athletes from the two countries would have other opportunities to earn Olympic qualification points, noting that the World Cup circuit is not the sport’s highest-level competition.

Kaunas officials also criticised the decision, citing the city’s sports infrastructure and experience hosting international events.

The Lithuanian Education, Science and Sport Ministry reiterated last month that its recommendations against inviting Russian and Belarusian athletes to competitions in Lithuania remain unchanged. To be admitted, athletes from those countries must sign a declaration condemning military action and expressing support for Ukraine, and they cannot display national flags or other symbols.

Kinderis warned that the decision could also threaten Kaunas’ right to host a 2028 World Cup event and junior and youth championships.

National federations have until October 25 to apply to replace Kaunas as host of the 2027 event. Four World Cup stages were originally planned for next year. If no replacement host is found, UIPM is considering holding only three.