IPC allowed Russian soldiers to participate in competitions: what they responded to Ukraine

According to glavcom.ua: The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has expressed its position regarding the participation of Russian occupiers in sports tournaments organized under its patronage.

In response to a query from 'Glavkom' about the ban on Russian athletes who have participated in the conflict in eastern Ukraine, the IPC responded as follows:

• Is there a ban on participation in competitions organized by the IPC for Russians who were participants in the illegal war against Ukraine?
• Do they have the same rights as all other athletes?

“Since the NPC (National Paralympic Committee – 'Glavkom') of Russia is a full member, they can declare their athletes for IPC competitions,” explained IPC Public Relations Director Craig Spence.

Decision on Russian and Belarusian athletes

After the delegates' vote, Russians and Belarusians were given the opportunity to participate in tournaments under the IPC's patronage with their own symbols. The consideration of the ban was partly rejected, so their athletes can continue to compete on the international stage.

This decision opens up new opportunities for athletes from Russia and Belarus in the sports world and has been positively received by the respective sports communities.