The world’s most inspiring winter sports event has officially arrived. The 2026 Winter Paralympic Games have opened in northern Italy, bringing together hundreds of elite athletes from across the globe for ten days of high-level competition, remarkable personal stories, and groundbreaking athletic performances.
From March 6 to March 15, 2026, the Games transform the historic Alpine landscape surrounding Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo into a global stage for Para athletes competing at the highest level. More than 600 athletes representing 56 countries are taking part in what organizers describe as the largest and most inclusive Winter Paralympics ever held.
For sports fans in the United States and around the world, Milano Cortina 2026 promises a compelling mix of fierce competition, inspirational journeys, and historic milestones that highlight the continued evolution of adaptive sport.
A Historic Edition of the Winter Paralympics
The 2026 edition marks the 14th Winter Paralympic Games and carries special symbolic weight. The event coincides with the 50th anniversary of the first Winter Paralympics, highlighting half a century of progress in accessibility, athletic opportunity, and global recognition for athletes with disabilities.
The Games are hosted across several iconic Italian locations, including Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Predazzo, and Verona, with the opening ceremony taking place inside the historic Arena di Verona, one of Europe’s most famous Roman amphitheaters.
In total, athletes are competing in 79 medal events across six sports, making this the largest program in the history of the Winter Paralympics.
Those sports include:
- Para Alpine Skiing
- Para Biathlon
- Para Cross-Country Skiing
- Para Snowboard
- Para Ice Hockey
- Wheelchair Curling
Each discipline is divided into multiple classifications depending on the athletes’ physical impairments, ensuring fair and competitive races across different ability groups.
The Competition Schedule: Ten Days of High-Intensity Sport
The action runs continuously throughout the ten-day competition window, with medals awarded almost daily.
Some of the most anticipated moments on the schedule include:
Opening Ceremony (March 6)
The Games begin with a spectacular ceremony in Verona celebrating inclusivity, sport, and Italian culture.
Para Alpine Skiing Finals
Held in Cortina d’Ampezzo, these races traditionally deliver some of the most dramatic moments in the Games as athletes speed down challenging mountain courses.
Nordic Skiing Events
Biathlon and cross-country skiing competitions take place in Predazzo and Val di Fiemme, where endurance, precision, and tactical skill combine.
Para Ice Hockey Tournament
One of the most physical and thrilling Paralympic sports, this event features powerhouse teams including the United States, Canada, and China competing for gold.
Wheelchair Curling
Known for its intense strategy, wheelchair curling returns with the debut of a mixed doubles medal event, adding a new dimension to the competition.
Closing Ceremony (March 15)
The Games conclude in Cortina d’Ampezzo, celebrating the athletes and their achievements over the previous ten days.
Athletes to Watch at Milano Cortina 2026
Every Paralympic Games produces breakout stars and unforgettable performances, and Milano Cortina is expected to be no different.
Oksana Masters (United States)
One of the most decorated Paralympians in history, Oksana Masters returns to competition with the possibility of extending her already remarkable medal collection. Masters has competed across multiple sports throughout her career and remains a dominant force in Para Nordic skiing.
Her story continues to inspire fans worldwide. Born in Ukraine with limb differences caused by radiation exposure, Masters has built one of the most versatile and successful careers in Paralympic sport.
Giacomo Bertagnolli (Italy)
The Italian para alpine skier enters the Games as one of the host nation’s biggest medal hopes. Competing in front of home crowds adds pressure but also a powerful emotional boost.
Italy’s team hopes to improve on its performance at previous Winter Paralympics and deliver memorable moments for local fans.
Anna Soens and Ravi Drugan (Team USA)
Two American alpine skiers from Oregon represent the next generation of Para winter athletes. Both overcame life-changing injuries before pursuing elite competition.
