Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Pavel Sivakov changed his nationality from Russia to France. This change qualified Sivakov to represent France at the World Championships.

Born in Italy and raised in southwestern France, Sivakov had mentioned the possibility of switching to represent France before turning pro, but was racing for a Russian license and the Russian national team. He is the son of former professional riders Alexey Sivakov and Alexandra Kolyaseva.

"I was born in Italy and moved to France when I was one year old. France is where I grew up, where I was educated, and where I fell in love with riding my bike. France feels like my home," Sivakov said in a statement released by his club, Ineos Grenadiers.

"I have wanted to become a French citizen for a long time and had applied to the UCI, but I wanted to hurry given what is currently happening in Ukraine... I want to thank the UCI and the Ineos Grenadiers team for supporting this process and making this a reality. I want to thank them for making this a reality."

On Tuesday evening, the UCI announced the suspensions of the Russian and Belarusian teams, but Russian and Belarusian athletes on foreign teams remain eligible to compete in UCI races.

Shivakov expressed his opposition to Russia's invasion of Ukraine in a social media post last week, and his thoughts were echoed Thursday by Alexandr Vlasov (Bora-Hansgrohe), the only Russian rider currently remaining on the World Tour.

"As I have said before, I am totally against this war and all my thoughts are with the people of Ukraine," Sivakov said in a statement Friday. Like many people around the world right now, I want peace and a swift end to the suffering taking place in Ukraine."

Sivakov will compete in the French Championships in June and will qualify for the European and World Championships later in the season as part of the national team led by Thomas Voeckler.

"I am incredibly happy to have the opportunity to race for France in international competition. It would be a dream come true to represent France at the 2024 Olympics in Paris."