Winter Paralympics in Italy divide Europe over Russia’s participation

The Netherlands will not take part in the opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Paralympics in Italy. The move follows a dispute over the decision of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under their national flags, Champion reports.

In a statement, the Dutch Paralympic Committee said it regretted that the symbols of Russia and Belarus would be displayed at official events, including the opening ceremony and medal presentations. It added that diplomatic efforts to prevent the move had failed.

The Czech Republic, Finland, Poland, Latvia and Estonia have already joined the protest. Six Russian and four Belarusian athletes are scheduled to compete at the Games, which will take place from 6 to 15 March.

IPC President Andrew Parsons described the decision as final and urged countries to reconsider their position.

Ukrainian Paralympians will not boycott the competition, as their leadership believes such a step could play into Moscow’s hands.

(pir)