Paralympians face ban in Paris
- A little-known rule in Paris could ban Paralympians from competing at the Games.
- The rule regarding tattoos could give some Paralympic competitors nightmares as the event approaches.
- Paralympians risk being excluded from the upcoming event in Paris due to a tattoo rule.
As the Paris Paralympics approach, set to begin on August 29, Australian athletes are making final adjustments to their preparations. However, a peculiar rule enforced by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has raised eyebrows: athletes are prohibited from displaying Olympic rings tattoos, which could lead to disqualification. This regulation highlights the distinct separation between the IPC and the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The rule gained attention following an incident involving British swimmer Josef Craig during the 2016 Rio Paralympics. Craig was disqualified from the S8 100m freestyle final after competing with his Olympic rings tattoo visible. The IPC clarified that "body advertising" is strictly forbidden, including the display of Olympic rings, and emphasized that all teams are briefed on these policies before competitions. Despite the setback, Craig later secured a bronze medal in the event after covering his tattoo. As the IPC prepares to enforce this tattoo regulation in Paris, it contrasts sharply with the IOC's more lenient stance. Australian swimmer Kyle Chalmers recently competed with his Olympic rings tattoo on display, as the IOC allows such tattoos unless they promote a product. This discrepancy between the two organizations raises questions about the consistency of rules governing athletes in different competitions. Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Paralympics Australia for further comment on the enforcement of this controversial rule as the games draw near.