Milan’s vibrant streets hosted a celebratory event on Wednesday, marking the one-year countdown to the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Paralympic Games. International Paralympic Committee (IPC) President Andrew Parsons hailed the upcoming event as “the most beautiful Paralympic Winter Games yet,” promising a global showcase of human resilience and athletic excellence.
Scheduled from March 6 to 15, 2026, the Games will bring together approximately 665 athletes from 50 countries and regions. Competitions across six sports—including Para alpine skiing, wheelchair curling, and Para ice hockey—will award 79 gold medals. Venues span northern Italy, with events in Milan, Val di Fiemme, and Cortina d’Ampezzo, nestled in the UNESCO-listed Dolomites.
Affordable Access and Inclusive Vision
Ticket sales launched Wednesday, with 89% priced under €35 ($37.85) and children’s passes starting at €10. Over 200,000 budget-friendly tickets aim to broaden access. “These Games are a catalyst for social change,” Parsons emphasized, highlighting the transformative power of sports like Para cross-country skiing and wheelchair curling.
Torch Relay to Unite Communities
A 2,000-kilometer Paralympic torch relay will traverse Italy for 11 days, engaging 501 torchbearers to promote unity and inclusivity. The opening ceremony will light up Verona’s ancient Arena, while Cortina’s Ice Stadium hosts the closing event.
With venues set against Italy’s iconic landscapes and a focus on accessibility, Milano Cortina 2026 aims to redefine possibilities for Para athletes and audiences alike.
