Post #28503

Embassy Statement "On the Canadian Paralympic Committee’s Vote Concerning the Participation of Russian and Belarusian Athletes" (February 26, 2026) ❗️The Embassy of the Russian Federation in Canada has taken note of the recent Statement by the Canadian Paralympic Committee regarding the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games. 🇷🇺🇧🇾 We cannot help but observe once again that, in practice, the often-repeated principle that “sport is beyond politics” appears to be applied selectively. The continued opposition to the participation of Russian and Belarusian Paralympic athletes represents a clear example of political considerations prevailing over the fundamental values that Paralympic Movement claims to uphold. 🧑‍🦽‍➡️It is particularly troubling that such a stance affects athletes with disabilities. Individuals who have dedicated years of their lives to sport, overcoming immense personal challenges. When discussions turn to inclusivity, equality, non-discrimination and support for persons with disabilities, these principles are presented as universal. Yet in reality, they seem conditional, upheld only so long as they do not conflict with prevailing political narratives. ❗️The Embassy remains convinced that sport must unite rather than divide, and that genuine inclusivity cannot exclude athletes on the basis of nationality. A fair and consistent approach, free from double standards, is essential to preserving the integrity and moral authority of international sport.