Injured Russian soldiers eligible for future Paralympics says IPC boss

Russian soldiers injured in the war in Ukraine will be eligible to compete at future Games according to International Paralympic Committee president Andrew Parsons.

Reports indicate that Moscow is actively fast-tracking veterans of the conflict into elite disability sport structures.

An investigation by Poland-based outlet Vot Tak found that “at least 70” former combatants are already competing within national teams.

Parsons addressed the controversial subject while speaking to BBC Sport in Italy ahead of the Winter Paralympics opening ceremony.

‘Possibility after war’

When asked if those wounded in the ongoing invasion would be barred, the IPC chief confirmed they would be treated like athletes from any other member nation.

“There are many countries that recruit athletes from the armed forces, so if Russia does that, they won’t be the only one,” Parsons explained.

He emphasised the historical roots of the movement, which began at Stoke Mandeville following the Second World War.

“We have to remember where we come from,” the Brazilian official said.

“Our movement started after World War Two, specifically with injured military personnel.”

Parsons insisted that while the organisation opposes conflict, it exists to offer social reintegration through sport.

“It doesn’t matter to us what they have done in the past in the combat field,” he added.

“Of course crimes of war are something different, but what we offer with the movement is a second chance.”

Boycotts overshadow Winter Games

The comments come as the event in Italy faces significant disruption due to the reinstatement of Russia and Belarus.

Seven nations, including Ukraine, are set to boycott the opening ceremony in protest at the full inclusion of the two countries.

It marks a significant shift from 2022, when both nations were suspended following the launch of the full-scale invasion.

Restrictions were eased for Paris 2024 to allow participation as neutrals, before the ban was lifted entirely last year.

Consequently, the Russian flag will fly at a Paralympic Games for the first time since Sochi 2014.

However, Parsons warned that the global governing body would intervene if the event was utilised for political messaging.

When asked if the IPC would step in if sport was used as a propaganda tool, he confirmed: “When it comes to our members doing that, yes.”