Belarusians and Russians will not compete at the 2026 Paralympic Games

Decision of the International Paralympic Committee

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has confirmed that Athletes from Russia and Belarus will not participate in the 2026 Paralympic Games.

Earlier, in September, the committee renewed the membership of the National Paralympic Committees of these countries, This formally gave them the opportunity to compete at the Games, subject to qualification.

Why athletes will not be able to perform

After consultations with four international sports federations, it became clear that No Belarusian or Russian athlete will be able to qualify.

Thus, no representative of these countries will be allowed to participate in the 2026 Winter Paralympic Games, to be held in Italy.

Context and implications

This decision was another step by the international sports community to isolation of Russia and Belarus because of their aggression against Ukraine.

It is expected that a similar position will be maintained with regard to summer sports, where the participation of athletes from aggressor countries is also restricted or banned.