Russia wins first Paralympic medal in 12 years

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Members of Russia’s delegation take part in the delegation parade as volunteers lead holding the nation’s flag and placard during the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympic Games opening ceremony at Arena di Verona in Verona on March 6, 2026. (Photo by Stefano RELLANDINI / AFP)

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Russia won its first Paralympic medal since 2014 on Saturday as Varvara Voronchikhina claimed bronze in the women’s downhill standing in Cortina.

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Despite Russia’s ongoing war with Ukraine, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has allowed six Russian athletes and four from their allies Belarus to represent their countries, accompanied by their national flags, rather than competing as neutrals.

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The move sparked backlash with Friday’s opening ceremony being boycotted by seven countries, including Ukraine, and the Russia delegation was booed by some spectators in the Verona Arena during the parade.

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Speaking after winning her nation’s first medal since the 2014 Games in Sochi, 23-year-old Voronchikhina said: “For us it’s been a really long time when we were without a flag.

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“I’m really glad and all my country and all my teammates also.

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“I’m very happy because it’s the first medal for me.”

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Russia and Belarus were banned from the 2022 Paralympics following the invasion of Ukraine, although they were permitted to compete as neutral athletes in the Paris Summer Paralympics two years later.

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Four years ago Voronchikhina said she was in Beijing ready for to compete, before Russia was suspended by the IPC.

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“In Beijing we were there,” the Paralympics debutant said. “I had third training in downhill and after we (had to) go back home.

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“For me it was really, really sad and I hope in these Games I will be better and it will be.”

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AFP

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