Seven countries boycott 2026 Winter Paralympics opening ceremony over Russian participation

Seven nations have announced they will boycott the opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Paralympics, scheduled for Friday night in Verona. This decision comes after the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) confirmed that Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Ukraine will not send athletes or officials to the event.

This boycott represents a significant escalation from previous protests against Russian involvement, which had largely focused on the exclusion of athletes. Instead, this new round of protest targets the symbolic act of Russia competing under its own flag during international competitions—a move that many countries consider an affront to Ukraine’s ongoing war.

The British government has also joined this boycott, a stance consistent with their overall diplomatic approach towards Russia and Belarus. This decision aligns with their clear position on the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Although the UK will not send representatives to the opening ceremony, they have stated that sports minister Stephanie Peacock will attend events in Cortina D’Ampezzo in support of Team GB athletes.

IPC President Andrew Parsons defended this decision, emphasizing the committee’s commitment to ensuring a safe and fair competition for all participants. He reiterated that while Russia is not competing under its own flag, it remains part of the organizing team. Parsons highlighted the IPC’s voting process as the basis for these decisions: “I acknowledge this decision has not been well received in some parts of the world.”

The 2026 Winter Paralympics marks a special milestone, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Winter Games. Around 612 athletes from nearly 56 countries are expected to participate across venues in Milan and Cortina D’Ampezzo.