SEOUL, South Korea (AP) – The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has officially lifted the partial suspensions imposed on Russia and Belarus during its general assembly held in Seoul on Saturday. This significant decision was reached after the assembly voted against a full suspension for Russia by a margin of 111 to 55, with 11 members abstaining from the vote. Additionally, the assembly also rejected a partial suspension for Russia with a vote tally of 91 to 77 and eight abstentions.

In the case of Belarus, the IPC assembly similarly voted against a full suspension by a score of 119 to 48, along with nine abstentions, and also rejected a partial suspension with a 103 to 63 vote, accompanied by 10 abstentions. These decisions are expected to lead to potential conflicts with various sports governing bodies as the Milan-Cortina Paralympics approaches, scheduled to take place in Italy from March 6 to 15 next year.

The IPC clarified that the outcome of the vote means that the National Paralympic Committees (NPCs) of Belarus and Russia are reinstated with their full rights and privileges under the IPC Constitution. The committee also emphasized its commitment to working with these two countries to implement practical arrangements as soon as reasonably possible.

Following the IPC's decision, the Russian Paralympic Committee expressed its approval, describing the IPC’s ruling as a “fair decision” that fully reinstates its status within the international Paralympic community. They noted that this action is a vital step in promoting the international Paralympic movement and highlighted the importance of protecting athletes' rights without discrimination based on nationality or political affiliation.

While the IPC has lifted the suspensions, it is noteworthy that the Russian Olympic Committee remains under suspension by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) since 2023. This suspension followed allegations of violations of the Olympic charter, specifically regarding the monopolization of regional sports bodies in occupied eastern Ukraine.

As a result of this context, Russian athletes will be permitted to compete at the upcoming Milan-Cortina Winter Games, which are set to take place from February 6 to 22, 2026. The IOC has confirmed that it will implement a similar system to that used in the recent Paris Games, allowing Russian competitors to participate solely as Individual Neutral Athletes, identified by the French acronym AIN. This approach aims to ensure that athletes are able to showcase their skills while navigating the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding international sports.