Lithuania reportedly loses 2027 pentathlon World Cup stage

Lithuania has reportedly been removed as host of a 2027 Modern Pentathlon World Cup stage in Kaunas because it refuses to admit Russian and Belarusian competitors. RT reported on October 19, citing Lithuanian outlet Delfi, that the International Modern Pentathlon Union (UIPM) executive board made the decision earlier this month.

Lithuanian Modern Pentathlon Federation President Justinas Kinderis described the outcome as disappointing but expected, saying the international federation had repeatedly challenged Lithuania’s restrictions. National federations have until October 25 to bid for the displaced stage.

Olympic qualification at the centre of the dispute

In a letter cited by Delfi, UIPM President Rob Stull said host nations must follow International Olympic Committee recommendations and provide equal opportunities for athletes pursuing qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

The account says the IOC provisionally eased restrictions on the Russian and Belarusian Olympic committees in July and recommended that international federations admit competitors from both countries. It described that decision as potentially allowing participation under national symbols at the 2028 Games, rather than confirming such participation.

Lithuania’s ministry responsible for education, science and sport opposed the easing of restrictions in September. It said its recommendations to national sports bodies to exclude athletes from Russia and Belarus remained in force.

More Lithuanian events could be at risk

Kinderis criticised the UIPM’s handling of Lithuania’s position, arguing that the country’s record of organising championships and earning medals deserved greater recognition.

He also warned that Lithuania could lose a 2028 World Cup stage and junior and youth championships. Those were presented as possible further losses, not decisions already taken.

If no replacement host bids for the Kaunas event, the 2027 World Cup could be reduced from four stages to three, according to Delfi’s account. Both the replacement venue and the final number of stages therefore remain unsettled.