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.
Key Points
- Russian and Belarusian athletes approved as neutrals will not march in the Paralympics opening ceremony in Paris
- Criteria for approval as neutrals include not actively supporting the war and not being tied to military and national security agencies in Russia and Belarus
Pros
- Sending a strong message against state-backed doping and cover-ups
- Upholding the principles of neutrality and fairness in sports
Cons
- May affect individual athletes who are not involved in the conflict