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Iran Withdraws from Milan Cortina Paralympics Due to Middle East Conflict
Iran has withdrawn from the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Paralympics after determining its sole athlete cannot safely travel to Italy amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) announced Friday.
The announcement regarding Aboulfazl Khatibi’s withdrawal came just hours before the opening ceremony in Verona, which proceeded without Iran’s representation. The Paralympics are beginning less than a week after the United States and Israel launched military strikes against Iran, significantly heightening regional tensions.
“Due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the Pyeongchang 2018 and Beijing 2022 Paralympian cannot travel safely to Italy,” the IPC stated in its official release. The organization confirmed that Iran’s flag had been removed from the nations’ parade at Friday’s opening ceremony.
IPC President Andrew Parsons expressed deep disappointment over the situation, revealing that Paralympic organizers had worked extensively behind the scenes with the Iranian National Paralympic Committee to find alternative travel routes for Khatibi.
“With the conflict ongoing across the Middle East, the risk to human life is too high,” Parsons explained. He added that communication with Iranian officials had been particularly challenging as many of the nation’s communication systems were non-operational amid the conflict.
“We were informed by NPC Iran that safe passage to Milano Cortina 2026 was not possible, and, as a result, they would not be able to come to the Games,” Parsons said. “To not compete at a Paralympic Winter Games because of factors outside of his control after years of training and dedication is heartbreaking for the athlete and our sympathies are with Aboulfazl at this difficult time.”
Khatibi had been scheduled to compete in two Para cross-country skiing events beginning next week. He had been announced as Iran’s flagbearer, though volunteers were already set to carry flags for all nations during the ceremony due to logistical considerations and athletes’ training schedules.
The withdrawal marks another instance where geopolitical conflicts have directly impacted international sporting events. The Paralympic Games, which promote inclusion and peace through sport, now find themselves affected by one of the most volatile conflicts in recent Middle Eastern history.
Sports analysts note this situation highlights the complex intersection between international athletics and global politics. Paralympic athletes often overcome tremendous personal obstacles to compete at the elite level, making the political barriers preventing participation particularly poignant.
For Khatibi, the decision represents a devastating setback after years of dedicated training and previous Paralympic experience. Winter Paralympic sports require specialized training facilities and conditions that are especially difficult to access in countries with limited winter sports infrastructure like Iran, making qualification for these Games a remarkable achievement in itself.
The Paralympic Winter Games will continue in the Italian Alps through March 15, featuring approximately 600 athletes from around the world competing across six sports: alpine skiing, biathlon, cross-country skiing, snowboard, Para ice hockey, and wheelchair curling.
The organizing committee has expressed hope that the Games can still serve as a platform for promoting peace and understanding among nations, even as geopolitical realities prevent full participation from all qualified athletes.
The Milan Cortina Games represent the first time Italy has hosted the Winter Paralympics since Turin in 2006, with events split between Milan and the Alpine resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo.
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12 Comments
The safety of the athletes should always be the top priority. I understand Iran’s difficult decision, though I’m disappointed their Paralympian won’t get to compete this year.
Absolutely, the athletes’ well-being has to come first. Hopefully the situation stabilizes so Iran can send a full team to the next Paralympics.
It’s really disappointing that Iran had to withdraw due to safety concerns. The Paralympics should be a time for all nations to come together in the spirit of sport.
Absolutely, the Paralympics are meant to promote inclusion and equal opportunity. I hope diplomatic efforts can resolve the regional tensions so Iran can participate fully next time.
This is a real shame for the Iranian Paralympian who has trained hard and deserves to compete. Geopolitics shouldn’t overshadow the spirit of the Games.
I agree, the athletes shouldn’t be caught in the middle of political conflicts. Hopefully the situation improves so Iran can send a full team next time.
What a shame Iran had to withdraw from the Paralympics due to the ongoing tensions in the Middle East. I hope the situation improves so their athlete can participate in future games.
Yes, it’s really unfortunate that geopolitical conflicts prevent athletes from competing. I hope diplomacy can resolve these issues.
It’s sad to see politics interfere with the Paralympic Games. I hope the IPC can work with Iran to find a way for their athlete to participate safely in the future.
You’re right, the Paralympics should be a peaceful, inclusive event. I hope diplomatic efforts can resolve the tensions and enable full international participation.
This is a real shame for the Iranian athlete who has trained so hard. I hope the IPC and Iran can find a way for their Paralympian to compete safely in the future.
You’re right, the athletes deserve a chance to showcase their abilities regardless of geopolitics. Hopefully the situation improves so Iran can send a full team next time.