Czech athletes excluded from 2027 Winter University Games

The Czech Association of University Sport (ČAUS) has decided to exclude certain athletes from the 2027 Winter World University Games in China. This decision stems from a conflict between the International University Sports Federation (FISU) and various international sports federations regarding the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes.

While FISU has permitted Russian and Belarusian competitors to participate under a neutral status—including in collective sports—other major governing bodies maintain strict bans due to the invasion of Ukraine. Consequently, ČAUS will not nominate Czech representatives in sports where their respective international federations prohibit Russian and Belarusian participation.

Impacted disciplines include cross-country running (governed by World Athletics), ski orienteering, and curling. The Czech Curling Association expressed regret over the decision, noting that the exclusion of the women’s curling team deprives athletes of a significant international opportunity despite their preparation. Previously, it was also determined that Czech ice hockey teams would not participate in the event.