Winter Paralympics 50th anniversary: Chinese dominance expected amid boycotts over Russian flag

"The Winter Paralympics come to Milan Cortina to celebrate their 50th anniversary, with China looking to extend its dominance as a Paralympic powerhouse and Ukraine and other nations boycotting the opening ceremony over the return of the Russian flag and anthem."

"Russian athletes will compete under their own flag at the Paralympics for the first time in more than a decade, and the country's national anthem could be played for gold medalists for the first time on the stage of a major global sporting event since the invasion of Ukraine in 2022."

"Some 660 athletes will participate across the six sports in Italy from Friday through March 15. The U.S. is sending a 72-member squad to Italy, compared to the 67-member roster it took to Beijing 2022. This year's delegation includes Oksana Masters, the most decorated American Winter Paralympian, and 16-year-old Para alpine skier Meg Gustafson."

The Winter Paralympics return to Italy for the first time since 2006, marking the 14th edition since 1976. Approximately 660 athletes from nearly 200 nations will compete across six sports from March 8-15. The U.S. is sending a 72-member delegation, including decorated Paralympian Oksana Masters and 16-year-old alpine skier Meg Gustafson. China aims to maintain its Paralympic dominance. A significant controversy surrounds Russia's participation: Russian athletes will compete under their own flag for the first time in over a decade, and the national anthem may be played for gold medalists for the first time since 2016. This decision prompted Ukraine and seven other nations to boycott the opening ceremony. Middle East tensions have caused travel disruptions affecting some participating nations.

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