Lagatar24 Desk
Beijing, March 3: The International Paralympic Committee said on Thursday in Beijing that Russian and Belarussian competitors have been barred from competing in the Winter Paralympic Games due to their countries’ actions in the Ukraine conflict.
The U-turn comes less than 24 hours after the IPC stated on Wednesday that Russian and Belarussian competitors would be allowed to compete when the Games begin on Friday, but only as neutral athletes with no national colours, banners, or other emblems.
The IPC was roundly chastised for its initial ruling. It was described as a betrayal, sending the incorrect message to Russia’s leadership. Many athletes would refuse to participate against Russians or Belarusians, according to the IPC, causing confusion and harming the Paralympics’ credibility.
In a news conference in Beijing on Wednesday, IPC president Andrew Parsons expressed unreserved sympathy for the Ukrainian people, but said his actions were limited by his organization’s laws and the threat of legal action.
In announcing his turnaround, Parsons said almost the exact opposite, saying that his constituents had pushed back.
“In the last 12 hours, an overwhelming number of members have been in touch with us. They have told us that if we do not reconsider our decision, it is now likely to have grave consequences,” Parsons said in a statement.
“What is clear is that the rapidly escalating situation has now put us in a unique and impossible position so close to the start of the Games,” he added.
Now, the IPC joins sports like soccer, track, basketball, hockey and others that have imposed bans on Russians and Belarusians.
