Winter Paralympics open in Verona amid boycott controversy
The Winter Paralympics open tonight in Verona, but the ceremony will be overshadowed by diplomatic boycotts over the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes.
The Winter Paralympics officially get underway this evening with an opening ceremony in Verona.
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The event begins amid controversy over the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes, who have been allowed to compete under their nations’ flags.
Government representatives from both France and the United Kingdom have announced they will boycott the opening ceremony in protest at the decision.
Ukraine is also leading a broader boycott involving athletes from at least eight nations.
Despite the diplomatic tensions, the sporting programme will proceed as planned.
Snowboarder Cécile Hernandez and alpine skier Jordan Broisin will carry the French flag during the ceremony.