In a complete u-turn to the decision reached yesterday, (Wednesday 2nd March), the IPC have today announced that Russian and Belarusian Paralympic athletes may not take part in the Paralympic Winter Games which begin in Beijing on Friday. Following the invasion of Ukraine, the IPC initially said it would allow the athletes to compete as neutrals, a decision it received intense criticism for. But today, IPC president Andrew Parsons said an "overwhelming number of members" had told his organisation they would not compete should athletes from Russia and Belarus be allowed to participate. It is regrettable that the change of heart appears to have been triggered by the pressure brought to bear by member states, international public opinion and fears for the safety of the Russian and Belarusian athletes. Their statement said the "situation in the athlete villages" was "untenable". It’s is highly disappointing that this is offered in explanation for the ‘about turn’ rather than a desire to align itself with the stance adopted by other governing sports bodies. It is saddening that although the right decision has been reached eventually, it wasn’t taken nearly quickly enough or for the right reasons. “We are very firm believers that sport and politics should not mix”, the IPC president offered somewhat lamely by way of explanation. I’m sorry Mr. Parsons but, sometimes you just have to stand up and be counted. The world of Sport cannot be separated from Politics at a time of War. In future, it would be heartening to see the IOC and IPC take swift and decisive action when needed - to lead rather than to follow, if it really wishes to champion the fundamental principles and values that it professes to promote. The democratic world must stand in solidarity with Ukraine by decrying the outrages that are being committed there.

Thank you to those of you who signed this petition. Your opinion matters and your voice had been heard.

Ben