CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy, March 7, (V7N) - Russia secured its first Paralympic medal in 12 years on Saturday as Varvara Voronchikhina claimed bronze in the women’s downhill standing event in Cortina.

The victory comes against the backdrop of Russia’s ongoing war with Ukraine and the International Paralympic Committee’s (IPC) decision to allow six Russian and four Belarusian athletes to compete under their national flags. The move sparked backlash, with seven countries—including Ukraine—boycotting Friday’s opening ceremony. Russia’s delegation was booed by spectators at the Verona Arena.

Voronchikhina, 23, expressed joy after her achievement: “For us it’s been a really long time when we were without a flag. I’m really glad and all my country and all my teammates also. I’m very happy because it’s the first medal for me.”

Russia and Belarus were banned from the 2022 Paralympics following the invasion of Ukraine, though they were later permitted to compete as neutrals at the Paris Summer Paralympics in 2024. Voronchikhina herself was in Beijing four years ago, ready to compete, before Russia was suspended.

She recalled: “In Beijing we were there. I had third training in downhill and after we had to go back home. For me it was really, really sad and I hope in these Games I will be better and it will be.”

Her bronze medal marks Russia’s return to the Paralympic podium since the Sochi Games in 2014, though controversy continues to overshadow the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes.

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