IPC Confirms Paris 2024 Paralympic Eligibility for Russian and Belarusian Athletes

International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Updates Eligibility Guidelines for Paris 2024

Athletes from Russia and Belarus Subject to Strict Criteria

On March 6, 2023, the IPC Governing Board released revised eligibility criteria for Russian and Belarusian athletes wishing to compete in the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris.

This decision comes in the wake of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the subsequent sanctions imposed on Russia and Belarus by the international community.

The updated criteria aim to balance the IPC's commitment to inclusivity and fair play with the need to protect the integrity of the Paralympic Games.

Key Points of the Eligibility Criteria:

• Individualized Assessment: Russian and Belarusian athletes must undergo an individualized assessment to determine their eligibility.
• Strict Neutrality: Athletes must compete as neutral athletes, without any national symbols or flags.
• Condemnation of War: Athletes must publicly condemn the war in Ukraine and express support for peace.
• No Government Funding: Athletes cannot receive any financial support from the Russian or Belarusian governments.
• Compliance with Anti-Doping Rules: Athletes must comply with the IPC's anti-doping regulations.

These criteria are designed to ensure that athletes from Russia and Belarus only compete in Paris 2024 if they meet the highest standards of neutrality and sportsmanship.

The IPC emphasized that the eligibility criteria are subject to review and may be revised as the situation in Ukraine evolves.