Several Nations to Skip Paralympic Opening Ceremony in Protest
Multiple countries, including Canada, the Netherlands, and Great Britain, have announced they will boycott the opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Paralympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. The decision stems from concerns regarding the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in the Games.
The Canadian Secretary of State, Gary Anand, released a statement outlining Canada’s position, joining the Netherlands and the UK in protesting the inclusion of athletes from Russia and Belarus.
France, however, has decided against a boycott of the opening ceremony, according to reports. This decision highlights a division among nations regarding how to respond to the ongoing geopolitical situation.
Athletes are currently preparing for the Games, with training camps underway in locations like Méribel, France, as detailed in recent reports. The 2026 Winter Paralympics are scheduled to begin with the opening ceremony, followed by competition across various winter sports.
A comprehensive schedule of events, potential medal contenders, and a full overview of the sports involved can be found here.
The upcoming Games represent a significant moment for para-athletes worldwide, but the political backdrop adds a layer of complexity to the event.
