Summary
Athletes from Russia and Belarus marched under their national flags at the opening of the Milan-Cortina Winter Paralympics. This marks the first time since 2014 that these flags have been flown at a Paralympics, due to previous bans. Several countries, including Ukraine, boycotted the ceremony in protest.
Key Facts
- Russian and Belarusian athletes participated under their flags for the first time since 2014 at the Paralympics.
- The ban was previously in place due to the 2022 Ukraine invasion and past doping issues.
- Teams from seven countries, such as Ukraine, boycotted the ceremony to protest the inclusion of these athletes.
- Over 660 athletes from 56 countries are participating in the Games, held from February 28 to March 15.
- The opening ceremony took place in Verona, though no events are scheduled in that city.
- Iran withdrew from the Games as their athlete could not travel safely to Italy amidst regional conflicts.
- The International Paralympic Committee and game organizers emphasized messages of peace and inclusion.
