The 2026 Winter Paralympics, officially known as the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, have begun in Italy, bringing together hundreds of elite athletes from around the world. This year’s Games run from March 6 to March 15, 2026, and mark the 50th anniversary of the first Winter Paralympics.

With multiple host cities including Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Val di Fiemme, and the Opening Ceremony held in Verona, this edition blends history with cutting‑edge disability sport.

Full Schedule & Major Event Dates

The 2026 Winter Paralympics span 10 days with more than 79 medal events in six core sports. Competitions began on March 6 with the opening ceremony and continue through March 15, ending with a closing ceremony at the Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium.

Here’s an overview of key events:

  • March 6: Opening Ceremony — Verona Arena, Verona, Italy

  • March 7–15: Alpine Skiing, Biathlon, Cross‑Country, Ice Hockey, Snowboard, Wheelchair Curling competitions

  • March 15: Closing Ceremony — Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium

In total, about 650–665 athletes from countries around the world are competing across these events, all vying for medals in their respective disciplines.

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Which Sports Are Featured at the Games

The 2026 Winter Paralympics include a variety of adaptive winter sports, providing exciting competition and showcasing overall athletic excellence:

  • Para Alpine Skiing – Downhill, Super‑G, Giant Slalom, Slalom, Super Combined

  • Para Biathlon – Nordic combined skiing with shooting targets

  • Para Cross‑Country Skiing – Distance and sprint events

  • Para Ice Hockey – Sled hockey with modified sleds

  • Para Snowboard – Speed and skill competitions

  • Wheelchair Curling – Including a new mixed doubles event making its Paralympic debut in 2026

These sports are held across various world‑class venues including the Olimpia delle Tofane slope for skiing and Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena for sled hockey.

Participating Teams & Countries

More than 50 nations are participating in the Winter Paralympics. Countries traditionally strong in winter disability sports such as the United States, Canada, Germany, Italy, and Norway are expected to be medal contenders.

Several countries are expanding their Paralympic programs, and this year’s event has attracted a record number of nations in Para Snow Sports, including teams from Portugal, Montenegro, Lithuania, and El Salvador making standout appearances in snow disciplines.

What’s New in 2026

Several new features and historic moments are part of this year’s Winter Paralympics:

  • 50th Anniversary: This edition marks half a century since the first Winter Paralympics in 1976.

  • New Medal Event: Mixed doubles wheelchair curling is being contested at the Paralympics for the first time.

  • Expanded Participation: A record number of nations and athletes competing, pushing the boundaries of winter disability sport.

  • Torch Relay: A 2000‑km Paralympic torch relay culminated in Verona ahead of the opening ceremony, celebrating global inclusion and sport legacy.

How to Watch and Follow Live Action

Fans worldwide can follow the Games through TV and streaming options:

  • In the United States, NBC, USA Network, CNBC, and Peacock are broadcasting live events, on‑demand action, and highlights.

  • In Europe and other regions, local broadcasters and official Paralympic streaming channels are offering coverage with daily updates from all six sports.

What the Winter Paralympics Mean

The 2026 Winter Paralympics in Milano Cortina are more than just a sporting competition they are a celebration of resilience, ability, and inclusion. From Para Alpine Skiing to Para Ice Hockey, athletes are pushing boundaries and inspiring fans around the world. With new events, record participation, and unforgettable moments ahead, these Games promise to be one of the most memorable editions in Paralympic history.