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Russian athletes to compete under national flag at Winter Paralympics
For the first time since 2014, Russian athletes will participate in the Winter Paralympics under their national flag, marking a significant shift in international sports governance amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Paralympics participation details
Ten athletes from Russia and Belarus-six Russians and four Belarusians-will compete in the 2026 Winter Paralympics in Milan-Cortina, representing their countries with national flags and anthems. This follows a decision by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) to lift its partial ban on athletes from the two nations, a move that has sparked widespread debate.
The athletes secured their spots through bipartite commission invitations after the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruled in their favor, overturning bans imposed by individual sports federations, including the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS).
Controversy and boycotts
The IPC's decision has drawn sharp criticism, particularly from Ukraine and its allies. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called the move "awful," while skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych, who was disqualified from the Winter Olympics for protesting Russia's invasion, stated that many Ukrainian Paralympians no longer wish to participate.
Teams from Ukraine, Czechia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Finland will boycott the opening ceremony in Verona, with Germany also opting out of the Parade of Nations in solidarity with Ukraine. European Commissioner for Sport Glenn Micallef announced his absence, stating, "While Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine continues, I cannot support the reinstatement of national symbols."
The UK and Italian governments have also expressed opposition to the IPC's decision. A senior Russian sports official accused boycotting teams of politicizing the Paralympic movement.
IPC's rationale and past bans
The IPC initially banned Russian and Belarusian athletes from the 2022 Beijing Winter Paralympics, citing the use of Paralympic sport to promote Russia's military campaign in Ukraine. The ban was later relaxed to allow neutral participation in the 2024 Paris Paralympics, a policy mirrored by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
The IPC claims its latest decision reflects the wishes of its members, a majority of whom voted against maintaining suspensions in September. The committee argues there is now less evidence of Paralympic sport being used for propaganda purposes.
"Our game is sport. That means keeping sport a neutral ground. A place where every athlete can compete freely, without being held back by the politics or divisions of their governments."
Kirsty Coventry, IOC President
Broader implications for Russian reintegration
The Winter Paralympics could set a precedent for other sports bodies considering the reintegration of Russian athletes. The IOC has hinted at a potential review of its partial ban, with Russian officials suggesting a decision could come as early as spring 2026. However, Ukraine remains steadfast in its opposition, with its sports minister reporting that over 650 Ukrainian athletes and coaches have been killed and 814 sports facilities damaged since the war began.
Some international federations, such as the International Judo Federation, have already allowed Russian athletes to compete under their national flag, while the IOC has advised governing bodies to permit Russian youth athletes to participate in international events with national symbols. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has also suggested reconsidering Russia's ban from international football, arguing that current sanctions have "created more frustration and hatred."
Global Athlete, an international campaign group, has condemned the IPC's decision, stating, "Now is the time for sport to show leadership, not weakness. The global sporting community must stand together and demand that the IOC increase sanctions on Russia, not relax them."
Geopolitical tensions and future outlook
The IPC's move reflects a broader struggle within international sports to balance neutrality with geopolitical realities. While some argue that sport should remain apolitical, others insist that allowing Russian participation under national symbols undermines efforts to hold the country accountable for its actions in Ukraine.
As the conflict continues, any further steps toward reintegrating Russian athletes are likely to face significant resistance, particularly in Europe. The outcome of the Winter Paralympics may influence whether other sports bodies follow suit ahead of major events like the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
