Russia Claims First Winter Paralympic Gold Since 2014
Russia celebrated its first Winter Paralympic gold medal under its own flag since 2014, as 23-year-old skier Varvara Voronchikhina clinched the women’s super-G standing title at the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games in Cortina d’Ampezzo on Monday. Voronchikhina had already made history the previous weekend by winning a bronze medal, marking Russia’s first Winter Paralympics podium in 12 years.
Despite ongoing geopolitical tensions from Russia’s war with Ukraine, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) allowed six Russian athletes and four from Belarus to compete under their national flags rather than as neutral participants. This is a notable shift from previous bans, as Russia was barred from the 2018 Winter Games due to a doping scandal and competed under neutral colours, while both Russia and Belarus were excluded from the 2022 Winter Paralympics following the Ukraine invasion. Some athletes were later allowed to compete as neutrals in the 2024 Summer Paralympics in Paris.
On Monday, Voronchikhina dominated the Olympia delle Tofane piste, finishing 1.96 seconds ahead of French silver medallist Aurelie Richard to secure top honours. Her victory represents not only a personal achievement but also a symbolic return to the Winter Paralympic podium for Russia under its own flag.
Russia’s sports minister, Mikhail Degtyarev, celebrated the win on Telegram, posting congratulations to Voronchikhina and noting that the Russian national anthem would play during the podium ceremony later that day. Voronchikhina reflected on the significance of her gold medal, recalling her disappointment four years ago in Beijing when she was prepared to compete but was unable to due to Russia’s suspension by the IPC.
Her triumph at Cortina signifies a moment of redemption and resilience, highlighting her dedication and the broader return of Russian athletes to international Paralympic competition. The gold medal also adds a significant milestone to Russia’s Winter Paralympics history, marking a notable comeback after years of restrictions and bans
