The participation of Russians in the Paralympics with their flag and anthem was publicly supported by the U.S. President's Special Envoy for Global Partnerships Paolo Zampolli, reports The New York Times.
"I think sports are for everyone," he commented on the decision to allow Russians to participate.
At the same time, this decision was criticized in Latvia. Minister of Education and Science Dace Melbarde announced that she would refuse to attend the upcoming Paralympic Games in Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo as long as the decision allowing athletes from Russia and Belarus to compete under their national flags remains in effect.
Meanwhile, as reported by The New York Times, FIFA President recently stated that he wants to see Russia in international competitions, and IOC President Coventry said that sports should remain a "neutral platform where every athlete can compete freely."
Another IOC member, Jordanian Prince Faisal Al Hussein, also supported Russia's return.
"They are certainly making good steps forward, and ultimately the Olympic movement is about inclusivity, not exclusivity, so we need to find a way to bring everyone back," Hussein stated.
