Athletes from Russia walk during the opening ceremony at the 2026 Winter Paralympics, in Verona, Italy. (AP Photo/Antonio Calanni)

NEW DELHI: The Milan–Cortina Winter Paralympics officially opened on Friday in Italy, but the ceremony was overshadowed by controversy after Russian athletes were allowed to march under their national flag for the first time since 2014. The decision by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) drew criticism because of Russia’s ongoing war with Ukraine.Only a small Russian delegation took part, and they were booed by sections of the crowd as they entered the historic Verona Arena. Several countries — including Ukraine, Poland, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and the Czech Republic — boycotted the ceremony in protest. Instead, volunteers carried their flags without athletes or officials present. In contrast, the Ukrainian flag received a long round of applause from spectators.IPC president Andrew Parsons defended the decision, saying it followed a vote by the organisation’s General Assembly last September that allowed Russia and Belarus to return to competition under their national flags. Speaking during the ceremony, Parsons also reflected on global conflicts. “Four years ago, I said I was horrified at what was happening in the world,” he said. “Unfortunately, the situation has not changed. In a world where some countries are better known by the names of their leaders, I prefer to know countries by the names of their athletes.”The ceremony, attended by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and President Sergio Mattarella, began with a drumming performance by Stewart Copeland of The Police, followed by a simple rendition of Italy’s national anthem and the athletes’ parade.More than 600 athletes will compete in six sports across venues in northern Italy until March 15. Events will take place mainly in Cortina, while Milan will host para ice hockey, and Val di Fiemme will stage cross-country and biathlon competitions.Organising committee president Giovanni Malago said the Games carry an important message during turbulent times. “The message of peace, inclusion, and solidarity at the heart of the Olympic and Paralympic movement is more meaningful and more important than ever,” he added.