Hosts Italy voice ‘absolute opposition’ to Russia flag flying at Winter Paralympics

Guardian Sport

by Reuters

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Italian government has expressed strong opposition to the International Paralympic Committee's (IPC) decision to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under their national flags and anthems at the upcoming Winter Paralympics. Host nation Italy, which recently hosted the Winter Olympics, believes this decision contradicts the Olympic spirit, particularly given Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Sports Minister Andrea Abodi have urged the IPC to reconsider its stance, arguing that it sends the wrong message and undermines efforts to promote peace. The IPC's decision has sparked widespread debate among sports organizations and governments worldwide. While some argue that sport should remain separate from politics, others, like Italy, view the inclusion of Russian and Belarusian athletes under their national symbols as a glorification of their regimes. This stance aligns with other countries' moves to isolate Russia and Belarus on the global stage due to their roles in the conflict. The IPC has defended its decision, stating that it aims to provide a platform for all athletes while respecting international agreements. This issue highlights the delicate balance between sports diplomacy and political realities. For readers interested in sports, this debate underscores how global conflicts can influence athletic competitions and the broader implications for international relations. Whether the IPC will revise its decision remains uncertain, but it is clear that the intersection of sport and politics continues to shape the outcomes of major sporting events

Verticals

sports

Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/19/2026