The Ukrainian team for the Paralympic Games has been required to change a planned uniform that included a map of the country's internationally recognized borders, as items related to national identity are prohibited under competition regulations, a senior official confirmed to Reuters.
IPC Regulations Prompt Uniform Revision
Craig Spence, the International Paralympic Committee's Chief Brand and Communications Officer, stated that an alternative uniform was provided and approved by the IPC within a 24-hour period. The original design, as reported by Ukrainian media, featured a map of Ukraine encompassing all territories currently under temporary Russian occupation.
Strict Rules on National Identity
According to IPC rules governing Games uniforms, national anthem lyrics, motivational words, and public or political messages or slogans tied to national identity are strictly forbidden. A country's map is explicitly included in this prohibited category, which led to the disapproval of one item from Ukraine's uniform for the Milano Cortina 2026 Games several months ago, Spence explained.
Context of Recent Controversies
This incident follows a similar controversy during the Winter Olympics in February, where Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych was disqualified for wearing a custom helmet that depicted Ukrainian athletes killed during Russia's invasion, which began four years ago. Additionally, Ukraine has already announced a boycott of the opening ceremony in Verona on Friday after the IPC permitted Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete under their national flags and with their anthems.
Upcoming Milano Cortina Winter Paralympics
The Milano Cortina Winter Paralympics are scheduled to run from March 6 to March 15, with Ukraine being represented by 35 athletes competing across four sports. The team's participation comes amid heightened tensions and strict adherence to IPC guidelines regarding national symbolism.
