"The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) allocated ten combined slots to Russian and Belarusian competitors, allowing them to take part in the Games from March 6 to 15 under their national flags and anthems. The decision, made in September 2025, has sparked a political storm against the backdrop of Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine."
"The Paralympic athletes stand for courage, determination and overcoming challenges - and they inspire people worldwide. Especially in challenging times, it remains our common task to live the Paralympic values visibly and to resolutely protect the integrity of the sport."
"Germany's Disabled Sports Association (DBS) said in a press release that it would not send athletes or officials to the amphitheater in Verona. The decision was made to balance preparation for competitions with a respectful demonstration of solidarity toward the Ukrainian delegation."
The International Paralympic Committee allocated ten combined slots to Russian and Belarusian competitors for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Paralympics, permitting them to compete under their national flags and anthems. This decision, made in September 2025, has triggered significant political backlash amid Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Germany's Disabled Sports Association announced it will boycott the opening ceremony in Verona, joining Ukraine, Finland, the Czech Republic, Latvia, Poland, Lithuania, and the Netherlands. Germany's decision represents a reversal from its initial opposition to boycotts. Canada and Great Britain are also skipping the ceremony due to scheduling conflicts with Alpine skiing events beginning the following day in Cortina, approximately 250 kilometers away.
#paralympics-boycott #russia-ukraine-conflict #international-paralympic-committee #political-protest #2026-milan-cortina-games
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