The Russian flag has returned to the global sporting stage, appearing at the Winter Paralympics for the first time in a decade.
asked Boos Russian Athletes follow the flag at the Milan Cortina opening ceremony – the first Winter Games where the tricolor has appeared in Sochi since 2014.
The four-strong delegation waved to the crowd as they marched in an event boycotted by some nations because of their presence in the ancient Arena di Verona.
Russia was initially banned from the 2016 Summer Paralympics over a state-sponsored doping scandal, and a further ban was imposed after the 2022 invasion. Ukraine.
Russian athletes during the athletes’ parade during the opening ceremony of the Paralympics. Image: Reuters / Matteo Ciambelli
With the suspension now lifted, the Winter Paralympics could see the Russian national anthem played for the first time at a major international sporting event from 2022.
Russia’s ally, BelarusThe parade returned with two athletes participating, as well as a ban on the 2022 invasion.
There was applause when Ukraine announced, but no athletes represented the country in the parade after they went ahead with the boycott.
Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Poland And even Lithuania joined their protest.
The Russian flag and other flags fly at Tesero Cross Country Skiing Stadium. Image: AP
The Russian flag was last seen at the opening ceremony of the Paralympic Winter Games in Sochi in 2014. Image: Reuters
Iran did not appear, unable to travel, after its only competitive athlete had to withdraw from the Games Italy Because of the ongoing Conflict with Iran In the Middle East.
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With the Games being held in multiple locations across Italy, many athletes were unable to participate, and only 45 of the more than 600 competitors represented their nations at the event.
The Milan Cortina Games, which will mark the 50th anniversary of the Winter Paralympics, will see athletes compete in 79 events across six sports.
