Russian athletes back on podium after winning Winter Paralympic medals

Russian athletes back on podium after winning Winter Paralympic medals Russia was twice banned from the Games, first in 2016 over a state-sponsored doping scheme, and then in 2022 due to the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Saturday 7 March 2026 15:42, UK Why you can trust Sky News Russian athletes competing in the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games under their own flag for the first time since 2014 have won their country's first medals. The image of Russian athletes sharing podiums with their fellow Paralympians marks a significant milestone in bringing the country back from sporting exile. Russia was twice banned from the Games , first in 2016 over a state-sponsored doping scheme, and then in 2022 due to the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The illegal invasion of Ukraine and Russia's subsequent actions led to the country being prevented from competing in a host of sports arenas. Russian national teams and clubs were suspended from all competitions by FIFA and UEFA in February 2022. Russian athletes back on the podium On Saturday, Russia managed to win two bronze medals. More on Russia Two children among at least 10 dead in Russian missile strikes in Ukraine Russian intelligence suspected after Birmingham targeted in 'self-igniting parcel' attacks Ukraine peace talks could be postponed for 'a while' due to Iran war Related Topics: Russia Para alpine skiers Varvara Voronchikhina and Aleksei Bugaev claimed the medals in the women's and men's downhill standing competition. 2:44 Share Sky News explored in November whether Russia is being 'brought in from the cold' in sport Read more from Sky News: Badenoch claims RAF jets are 'just hanging around' Soham murderer Ian Huntley dies after prison attack Russia have six athletes at the Games. Russian athletes were given wildcard entries by the International Paralympic Committee, a decision that upset Ukraine and other nations that boycotted the opening ceremony on Friday. Related Topics Russia