Russian, Belarusian athletes to compete under own flag at Paralympics 2026

Al JazeeraEN 2 min read 100% complete by By News AgenciesFebruary 18, 2026 at 12:03 PM

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The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has decided to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under their own flags at the Milano Cortina Winter Paralympics 2026. This reverses the ban imposed following Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Ukraine's Sports Minister has strongly condemned the decision, calling it "disappointing and outrageous," arguing that these nations' flags should not be present at international sporting events. The IPC's decision follows a vote in September 2025 to lift the partial suspensions of Russia and Belarus. Despite initial bans from international federations, Russia and Belarus won an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport, enabling their participation. Approximately 10 para-athletes from the two nations are expected to participate.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) 40% Court of Arbitration for Sport 40% Vladimir Putin ×250% Matvii Bidnyi 60% Milano Cortina Winter Paralympics 2026 70% Paralympics ×275% Belarus ×480% International Paralympic Committee (IPC) ×385% Ukraine ×590% Russia ×590%

Keywords

paralympics 100% belarusian athletes 90% russian athletes 90% ukraine 80% international paralympic committee 70% sports ban 60% national flags 60% sport and politics 50% invasion of ukraine 50% court of arbitration for sport 40%