Sports court rules European table tennis ban on Russians 'discriminatory'

According to court documents from Lausanne, CAS ruled that the ETTU’s decision to bar Russian and Belarusian athletes from international competitions amounted to discrimination.

In the 2021–22 season, the ETTU canceled a semifinal match involving Russian clubs following Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. As a result, Germany’s Borussia Düsseldorf — which won the other semifinal — was declared the tournament champion.

The court found that the ETTU’s decision violated Article 1.3.1 of its statutes, which calls for “unity of action, mutual respect between associations, and the prohibition of discrimination against associations or individuals on racial, political, religious, gender, or other grounds.”

CAS also ruled that a blanket ban on athletes from participating in their chosen sport is “the most severe measure possible,” noting there was no evidence the ETTU had considered less restrictive options. It is the first time CAS has recognized such a ruling as discriminatory against Russian and Belarusian athletes.

The court annulled the ETTU’s decision to exclude Russian and Belarusian players and officials from its events and overturned the ban preventing Russian clubs from competing in any European tournaments during the 2021–22 season, including the Men’s Champions League.

At the same time, CAS deemed the prohibition on using national symbols — such as the flag and anthem — a “moderate measure” that helps reduce potential conflict without affecting athletes’ ability to compete. The court also rejected Russia’s request for a full reinstatement of its players, clubs, and national team without restrictions.

Earlier reports noted that Russian skiers remain barred from participating in the World Cup series.