In just 100 days, the 2026 Winter Paralympics are set to kick off in Italy, with over 600 athletes participating in six sports on ice and snow. International Paralympic Committee (IPC) president Andrew Parsons anticipates exceptional performances during the Milano Cortina Winter Paralympic Games from March 6 to 15.
Parsons highlighted the extraordinary abilities of athletes, such as visually impaired skiers tackling slopes at high speeds and the precision displayed in Para ice hockey and wheelchair curling against the backdrop of breathtaking venues like the Dolomites.
This upcoming event will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the inaugural Winter Paralympics in 1976. After being separated from fans due to pandemic restrictions during the 2022 Beijing Games, athletes are eager to compete in front of live audiences once again.
The Winter Paralympics will feature 79 medal events across Para alpine skiing, Para biathlon, Para cross-country skiing, Para ice hockey, Para snowboard, and wheelchair curling. A new addition to the medal events is wheelchair curling mixed doubles.
Parsons emphasized the Paralympics’ role in promoting inclusion, citing sport’s ability to drive positive change and elevate awareness of persons with disabilities. A study commissioned by the IPC revealed that the 2024 Summer Paralympics significantly influenced attitudes toward individuals with disabilities.
Canadian Paralympic medallist Mac Marcoux will lead the Canadian team as honorary captain, joined by five co-captains across various sports. Marcoux encouraged athletes to embrace the experience and compete without regrets.
The Paralympic Performance Recognition program will provide financial rewards for podium finishes, with $20,000 for gold, $15,000 for silver, and $10,000 for bronze medals. Parsons commended the initiative and called for more national Paralympic committees to offer similar support.
Looking ahead, Parsons expressed a desire to expand Paralympic skating sports and introduce women’s Para ice hockey. He stressed the importance of growing the sport globally to ensure its inclusion in future Paralympic programs.
Despite controversial decisions regarding Russian and Belarusian athletes’ participation, the IPC remains committed to using the Paralympics as a platform for human rights and inclusion. Athletes from these countries will compete as Individual Neutral Athletes at the Winter Paralympics under stringent screening measures.
