Russia and Belarus will not go to the 2026 Paralympics: FIS decision

Russia and Belarus will not participate in the 2026 Paralympic Games

Yesterday, October 21, the International Ski Federation (FIS) Council voted against the participation of Russians and Belarusians in the Paralympic qualifying competitions. Thus, representatives of the aggressor countries will not be able to participate in the 2026 Winter Paralympics.

If Russians and Belarusians were allowed to compete, they would be able to do so with their own symbols, flag, and anthem.

The Winter Paralympic Games 2026 will be held in the Italian cities of Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo from March 6 to 15.

Restored membership of Russia in the International Paralympic Committee

On Saturday, September 27, at the IPC General Assembly in Seoul (South Korea), IPC member organizations voted to restore the membership of the Russian Paralympic Committee.

In the first round, 111 delegates voted against the full removal of the RPC, 55 in favor, and 11 abstained. In the second round, 91 delegates voted for the repeal of the partial removal of the RPC, against – 77, 8 abstained.

Now Russians and Belarusians will be able to participate in tournaments under the IPC auspices with their own symbols, flag and anthem.

The membership of the Russian Paralympic Committee was partially suspended at the IPC General Assembly in September 2023.

After the opening of the 2026 Winter Paralympic Games in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, Russians and Belarusians were unable to participate in the Paralympic competitions due to the rejection by the FIS Council. At the same time, they have been given the opportunity to participate in IPC-sanctioned tournaments that will take place in upcoming competitions. As a result, Russia's membership in the Paralympic Committee was restored based on the voting at the IPC General Assembly in September 2023.