Germans Protest Against Russia on Paralympic Podium
Thursday, 2026/03/12150 words2 minutes370 reads
German cross-country skiers made a powerful statement at the Winter Paralympics by turning their backs on Russian gold medallists during the podium ceremony. This protest highlighted their opposition to Russia's participation in the Games.
For the first time since 2014, Russian athletes are competing under their national flag after the International Paralympic Committee lifted its suspension in September. Russia had been banned due to a state-sponsored doping scandal and later faced additional sanctions following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
Silver medallists Linn Kazmaier and her guide Florian Baumann refused to face the Russian flag during the anthem. Kazmaier explained that the ceremony felt strange and that politics had overshadowed the sporting event. They kept their hats on and declined to participate in the traditional medallists' selfie.
Seven countries, including Ukraine, boycotted the opening ceremony in protest of Russia's inclusion. The IPC is now gathering evidence about the German athletes' demonstration.
