Russian and Belarusian Athletes Allowed as Neutrals at 2024 Paralympics, Full Ban Not Maintained

Russian and Belarusian athletes will be able to compete at the Paralympic Games in Paris next year as neutrals, according to the International Paralympic Committee (IPC). The decision comes after the IPC voted against maintaining a full ban on the two countries, which was imposed after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The IPC announced on September 29 that Russian athletes will be able to compete as individual or neutral athletes at the 2024 Paralympics in Paris. Paralympics GB expressed disappointment with the decision, stating that it does not align with the values of the Paralympic movement. The IPC will take a second vote on whether Russian athletes can compete under the Russian flag or as neutrals.