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Voronchikhina Wins Gold, Russia's Anthem Returns at Paralympics

3/10/2026

48 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Varvara Voronchikhina won gold in the women's standing super-G at the 2026 Paralympics, and the Russian anthem was played for the first time since 2014.
She expressed joy at seeing Russia's flag among spectators.
Russia's sports minister praised the victory on social media.
The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) lifted the ban in September, but Ukraine's National Paralympic Committee condemned Russia's participation.

History

Historical Context

The International Paralympic Committee lifted a ban on Russian athletes in 2022, following their exclusion due to geopolitical tensions after Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea and the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Despite Varvara Voronchikhina's gold medal at the 2026 Paralympics, the ongoing conflict underscores the complex relationship between sports and international politics, challenging the ideals of inclusivity in global competitions.

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Story summary

Varvara Voronchikhina won gold in the women's standing super-G at the 2026 Paralympics, and the Russian anthem was played for the first time since 2014.
She expressed joy at seeing Russia's flag among spectators.
Russia's sports minister praised the victory on social media.
The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) lifted the ban in September, but Ukraine's National Paralympic Committee condemned Russia's participation.

1 / 2