Story perspectives

Ukraine Leads Boycott as Winter Paralympics Kick Off

3/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Milan-Cortina Winter Paralympics begin as Ukraine leads a boycott of Russian and Belarusian athletes competing under their flags.
Seven countries, including the United Kingdom, will not attend the opening ceremony.
IPC President Andrew Parsons defended the decision to allow Russian athletes, citing democratic processes.
The Games mark their 50th anniversary and will feature over 600 athletes from 56 countries, the largest Winter Paralympics to date.

History

Historical Context

The inaugural Winter Paralympics took place in Örnsköldsvik, Sweden, from February 21-28, 1976, featuring 198 athletes from 16 countries. This event marked a significant step in the inclusion of athletes with disabilities, expanding beyond wheelchair competitors. The International Paralympic Committee has since grown, with over 600 athletes participating in 2022, reflecting ongoing geopolitical tensions in sports, similar to the Cold War era.

1 of 2

Story summary

The Milan-Cortina Winter Paralympics begin as Ukraine leads a boycott of Russian and Belarusian athletes competing under their flags.
Seven countries, including the United Kingdom, will not attend the opening ceremony.
IPC President Andrew Parsons defended the decision to allow Russian athletes, citing democratic processes.
The Games mark their 50th anniversary and will feature over 600 athletes from 56 countries, the largest Winter Paralympics to date.

1 / 2