Iran will no longer compete at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics, with its sole athlete unable to travel safely to Italy because of the war, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has said.

Two-time Paralympian Aboulfazl Khatibi Mianaei had been due to take part in two para cross-country skiing events: the men’s sprint classic on Tuesday and the 10km interval start classic (standing) on Wednesday.

Following Iran’s withdrawal, the IPC said Iran’s flag has been removed from the athletes’ parade for the opening ceremony in Verona.

IPC president Andrew Parsons said organisers had worked with Iran’s Paralympic committee and ski federation to explore alternative routes for travel, but concluded the risks were too high while the conflict continues across the Middle East.

He also noted that disrupted communications inside Iran have made coordination difficult, and said the IPC was told by Iran’s Paralympic committee that safe passage was not possible.

Parsons described the situation as “heartbreaking” for the athlete after years of preparation, and said the IPC’s sympathies were with him.