Ukrainian para powerlifters boycott world championship due to Russians: consequences for the 2028 Paralympics.

According to inkorr.com: The Ukrainian national team in para powerlifting has decided not to participate in the 2025 world championship due to the participation of athletes from Russia and Belarus, who will compete under their national colors. The head coach of the team emphasized that this is a conscious decision that complies with current legislation. Unfortunately, this position may lead to Ukrainian athletes being unable to compete in the 2028 Paralympic Games.

Coach's Commentary

“We are not going, we will fight for our rights, so that they [Russia and Belarus] are excluded until the end of the war. So that they compete not under their flag, but under the flag of the International Paralympic Committee,” said Alfirov.

Athletes' Reaction

This decision of the International Paralympic Committee has caused outrage among Ukrainian athletes, forcing them to refuse participation in competitions. This may negatively affect their prospects in future Paralympic events.

In the current situation, Ukrainian athletes demonstrate their solidarity and defend their rights despite the sporting challenges. The exclusion from competitions and the inability to compete under their own flag jeopardize their participation in international tournaments, further highlighting the difficulties faced by Ukrainian sports in these challenging times.