2026 Winter Paralympics Milano Cortina: Full Schedule & Must-Watch Events

The 2026 Winter Paralympics in Milano Cortina, Italy, promise thrilling action for para-athletes worldwide. These games, held right after the Olympics, celebrate resilience with six sports and about 665 competitors chasing 79 medals. This is the 14th edition, marking 50 years since the first in 1976.

Event Dates and Schedule Overview

Competition starts early with wheelchair curling on March 4 in Milan. The Opening Ceremony takes place at the Verona Arena on March 6, an ancient Roman amphitheater that will host the para-athletes’ parade for the first time. Full events run from March 7 to 15 across snowy venues, ending with the Closing Ceremony in Cortina d’Ampezzo on March 15. Daily highlights include Para cross-country skiing intervals on March 11, with the women’s 5km classic from 09:45 to 14:45, and biathlon sprints on March 13.

Key Sports and Highlight Events

Six sports dominate: Para alpine skiing (speed and technical races in Cortina), Para biathlon and cross-country skiing (endurance tests), Para snowboard (tricks and speed), Para ice hockey (team battles), and wheelchair curling (strategic shots). Watch for mixed doubles curling bronzes on March 11 and snowboard finals. Expect thrilling moments on Cortina’s historic slopes, the site of the 1956 Olympics.

Venues and Viewing Tips

Milan hosts curling. Cortina takes care of alpine, snowboard, and closing ceremonies. Verona Arena sets a dramatic opening tone. Stream live on Olympics.com or buy tickets now for this “most beautiful” Paralympics yet. It’s perfect for families to see inspiration in action.

FAQs

1. When do the 2026 Winter Paralympics start and end?
Wheelchair curling begins March 4; official games run March 6-15, 2026.​

2. What sports are featured?
Para alpine skiing, biathlon, cross-country skiing, ice hockey, snowboard, wheelchair curling 79 medal events total.3. Where are the main venues?
Verona Arena (opening), Milan (curling), Cortina d’Ampezzo (alpine, snowboard, closing).

Summary:
The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics run March 6-15 with 79 medal events across Para alpine skiing, biathlon, and more. Expect 665 athletes at stunning Italian venues like Verona Arena. Wheelchair curling starts March 4 don’t miss it!