Integrating the Olympic Truce into international law: legal implications of the Russian case

Abstract The Olympic Truce could potentially have a positive impact on peace by promoting dialogue and bringing relief to suffering populations. However, the recent Russian case – where a violation of the Olympic Truce was sanctioned for the first time – has created a complex and controversial situation, raising serious questions about the neutrality and coherence of sport in the context of international conflicts. This article explores the legal implications of the Russian case, suggesting the emergence of an opinio iuris that could support the idea of the Olympic Truce as a binding legal norm. By analysing the legal principles that underpin the necessity for a conditional participation regime in the Games, the study evaluates the scope of the Olympic Truce, illustrating its current limitations and future prospects. The article argues that urgent reform is required to guarantee the universality of sport and to ensure the Olympic Truce’s effective integration into international law.