MILAN, 6 February. A parade of athletes opened the official opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Italy. For the first time in history, the Olympic parade of athletes will take place at four different venues - the San Siro Olympic Stadium in Milan, as well as the Olympic venues in Livigno, Predazzo and Cortina.
The transfer of the athletes was started by the marching delegation representing Greece. The parade was completed by the representatives of the host country of the Games, Italy. Athletes representing Russia with INA (Individual Neutral Athlete) status will not be able to participate in the parade of athletes, but will be able to watch it from the stands. Athletes from Russia and Belarus have been granted permission to participate in the 2026 Winter Olympics under neutral status, which excludes the flying of national flags and anthems.
The 2026 Winter Olympics will be held in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, from February 6-22, 2026. Thirteen Russian athletes will compete under neutral status in figure skating, speed skating, short track, freestyle skiing, cross-country skiing, alpine skiing, luge and alpine skiing.
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