Glenn Micallef, the European Commissioner for Intergenerational Justice, Youth, Culture, and Sport, announced on February 18 that he will not attend the opening ceremony of the Paralympic Games in Milan. His decision stems from the inclusion of Russian and Belarusian athletes competing under their national flags.
Micallef highlighted that these athletes were granted wild cards to participate outside the ranking system. He emphasized that, given the ongoing conflict due to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, he cannot support the return of national symbols associated with this conflict.
“For this reason, I will not be present at the opening ceremony of the Paralympic Games. I do this with respect for the athletes but with a clear understanding of the principles at stake,” said Micallef.
He further remarked that while sports can unite, they also have the potential to divide when principles are compromised. Micallef urged his peers to adopt a similar stance.
On February 17, the International Olympic Committee informed AFP and SID that a limited number of athletes from Russia and Belarus would be allowed to compete under their national flags. The committee allocated six wild card spots for Russian athletes and four for those from Belarus.
The Paralympic Games are scheduled to take place in Milan from March 6 to March 15. In response to the decision regarding flag use, Ukrainian Minister of Youth and Sports, Matviy Bidny, announced that representatives of the Ukrainian government will boycott the event.
European Commissioner Glenn Micallef will not attend the Paralympic Games opening in Milan due to the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes under their flags. This decision aligns with ongoing tensions related to the conflict in Ukraine, prompting a broader call for principled stances in sports.
Source: Radio Svoboda