Closing Ceremony Marks Record Participation

The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics concluded its 10-day journey on Sunday, March 15 (local time) with a closing ceremony themed 'Italian Souvenir' at the Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium. The Games set a new participation record with 611 athletes from 55 countries competing, the highest in Winter Paralympic history.

Andrew Parsons, President of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), stated during the closing ceremony that "these Games are proof that sport can unite us," adding that "our differences actually bind us together and make us stronger." Parsons then passed the Paralympic flag to the French Alps 2030 organizing committee, which will host the next Winter Paralympics.

Medal Rankings and Notable Achievements

China claimed the top spot with 44 medals, while the United States finished second with 24 medals. Notably, Team USA achieved their fifth consecutive gold medal in para ice hockey, demonstrating their dominant position in the sport. Jack Wallace of the United States scored a hat-trick in the gold medal final and was honored with both the Best Forward award and the Media All-Star award.

Austrian siblings Veronika and Johannes Aigner emerged as the stars of the Games, collectively winning seven gold medals. Their performances in para alpine skiing left a lasting impression on spectators.

A particularly significant achievement was Brazil and Latvia winning their first-ever Winter Paralympic medals, a symbolic moment demonstrating the geographic expansion of the Winter Paralympics.

Series of Record-Breaking Performances

The Games witnessed numerous records across multiple events. In the wheelchair curling mixed doubles final, Canada defeated China to claim gold. This victory, achieved after a low-scoring battle, reaffirmed Canada's reputation in curling.

French para alpine skiing star Arthur Bauchet overcame an early slump to win a medal, dispelling concerns that it would be "a disappointing Games." In a post-race interview, he emphasized the importance of mental management, stating he "tried to appear beautiful, honest, and trustworthy in every moment."

Looking Ahead to French Alps 2030

The closing ceremony recreated an Italian winter wonderland and concluded with athletes from all 55 participating nations parading through the stadium. The Paralympic flag was handed over to Renaud Muselier, President of the French Alps 2030 organizing committee, and Fabrice Panel, President of the Paris 2024 organizing committee.

Milano Cortina 2026 established new milestones for the Winter Paralympics in terms of participating nations, athlete numbers, and record-breaking performances. During the closing ceremony, President Parsons reflected on the significance of the event, calling the "10 days of competition a milestone for the Paralympic movement."