Controversy as Russia and Belarus Return to Paralympic Games

Russia and Belarus are set to have 10 athletes at the Milano Cortina Paralympics, following the restoration of their full membership by the International Paralympic Committee. Despite ongoing sanctions, the Court of Arbitration for Sport's decision allows them to participate in specific events, sparking criticism from Ukraine.

Russia and Belarus will compete at the Milano Cortina Winter Paralympics with a total of 10 para athletes after regaining full membership in the International Paralympic Committee. This comes after a vote in September 2025 and a subsequent Court of Arbitration for Sport ruling.

Following the lifting of previous suspensions, both countries will see participation in Para alpine skiing, Para cross-country skiing, and Para snowboard despite initial opposition from international federations overseeing Paralympic sports.

Criticism arose from Ukrainian athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych, who expressed outrage over the decision, deeming it an unfair concession to nations responsible for recent conflicts in Ukraine. His disqualification for wearing politically charged imagery has further fueled the debate surrounding the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes.

(With inputs from agencies.)