MILAN (AP) — Russian athletes will compete under their own flag at the Paralympics for the first time in more than a decade, and the country's national anthem will be played for any gold medalists. Tuesday's announcement stands as another indicator that Russia and its national identity will be fully restored in Olympic circles well ahead of the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles.

STAMFORD, Conn. – Feb. 17, 2026 – NBCUniversal’s coverage of the Milan Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, scheduled for March 6-15, features more ways for viewers to watch their favorite events, competitions, and athletes than ever before, covering broadcast and cable networks, streaming service Peacock, extensive accessibility, and more.

Meet the team and discover top moments that shaped their journey to the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games

The Olympic medal ribbons are dark blue. The Paralympic medal ribbons are a deep red, which is a combination of the first two paint coats that were used on the Eiffel Tower, according to the website for the Paris 2024 Games. The ribbons for the medals for both Games are also decorated with the Eiffel Tower lattice work.

The men and women who make up the United States Olympic and Paralympic teams do not get paid by the U.S. government, but starting with the Milano Cortina Olympics in February, each athlete will receive $200,

Ukrainian officials announced a boycott of the Paralympic Games after Russia and Belarus were awarded slots to compete under their national flags, sparking international controversy.

A 14-year-old volleyball player from Scottsdale is advocating for House Bill 2333 to expand coverage for activity-specific prosthetic limbs.

The 2026 Simplot Games — the 46th annual high school track and field event — will welcome back Olympic gold medalist Tara Davis-Woodhall and Paralympic gold medalist Hunter Woodhall as guest Olympians.