Impact of War in Ukraine on Russian Olympic Hopes for 2026 Winter Games

With war still raging in Ukraine, Russia's hopes for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy look bleak due to strained relations with the International Olympic Committee. Russian athletes may be frozen out of the games unless peace is achieved in Ukraine. Despite the potential ban, Russia is pushing for its athletes to compete as neutrals with no visible ties to their country.

Ban on Russian and Belarusian Athletes in Paralympics Opening Ceremony

Russian and Belarusian athletes are barred from marching in the Paralympics opening ceremony in Paris, even if approved to compete as neutrals. The International Paralympic Committee set stricter limits than the International Olympic Committee, in response to the invasion of Ukraine.