The upcoming 2026 Winter Paralympic Games in Milano-Cortina have sparked controversy after a decision to allow athletes from Russia and Belarus to compete under their national flags. Several countries have announced they will boycott the opening ceremony scheduled for March 6 in Verona.

Nations including the Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Netherlands, and Ukraine confirmed they will not join the ceremonial parade. Their decision reflects ongoing concerns connected to the war in Ukraine.

The United Kingdom government also joined the protest, announcing that no ministers or official representatives will attend either the opening or closing ceremonies. Officials stated that Russian and Belarusian states should not be represented at major sporting events while the conflict continues.

Russia and Belarus had previously been banned from the 2022 Winter Paralympics following the invasion of Ukraine. However, some athletes from those countries later competed as neutral participants at the 2024 Summer Paralympics in Paris.

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) explained that its decision was influenced by a ruling from the Court of Arbitration for Sport, which overturned certain previous bans applied by governing bodies.

IPC president Andrew Parsons acknowledged the concerns raised by protesting nations. He emphasized that the committee must follow the legal ruling and noted that participation in the opening ceremony is optional for countries.

Some nations, including Germany, have also chosen not to participate in the parade of nations as a sign of solidarity with Ukraine. The move reflects broader political tensions surrounding the event.

Despite the controversy, the IPC says its priority remains fair competition for athletes. The Games will run from March 6 to March 15, featuring events such as alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, wheelchair curling, biathlon, and para ice hockey.