Russian Anthem Plays at Dakar Youth Olympics Medal Ceremony

Russia’s national anthem played at a medal ceremony on the opening day of the Youth Olympics in Dakar, signaling a modest but meaningful step toward the country’s return to international sports. The IOC has urged federations to admit Russian youth athletes without restrictions, saying they should not be held responsible for their governments’ actions; 13 Russians are competing in nine sports. Swimmer Serafima Fokina won the women’s 100-meter butterfly and later added a second gold, singing the anthem on the podium. The return remains contentious: some spectators objected, and federations in Norway, Denmark and Sweden have said their teams will not compete against Russian athletes.