2026 Winter Paralympics begin today: everything to know about Milan-Cortina Games

The 2026 Winter Paralympics begin on March 6 in Italy, bringing together some of the world’s top para-athletes for 10 days of high-level winter sports competition.

Held shortly after the Winter Olympics, the Games showcase elite athletes with disabilities competing across multiple disciplines that test endurance, skill and resilience. Thousands of competitors from around the world are expected to take part, with millions of fans following the action globally.

Milan and Cortina to host the Games

The event, officially known as the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympic Games, will be hosted across two Italian cities: Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Cortina d’Ampezzo, a renowned alpine resort in the Italian Alps, will stage several snow-based events, while Milan will host indoor competitions along with the opening and closing ceremonies.

Organisers are relying on a combination of newly built venues and upgraded Olympic facilities to accommodate athletes, officials and spectators throughout the Games.

Key dates to mark

The 2026 Winter Paralympics will run from March 6 to March 15, featuring more than a week of competition.

Opening ceremony: March 6
Competition days: March 7 to March 14
Closing ceremony: March 15

During the 10-day event, athletes will compete for medals while representing their countries across multiple winter disciplines.

Sports featured at the 2026 Winter Paralympics

Six sports will be contested during the Games:

• Alpine skiing
• Cross-country skiing
• Biathlon
• Snowboarding
• Curling
• Ice hockey

Athletes will compete within specific classifications in each sport to ensure fair competition based on functional ability.

Where fans can watch the Games

Global audiences will be able to follow the competition through official broadcasters and streaming platforms.

In the United States, coverage will be available through NBC, USA Network, and the Peacock streaming platform.

Fans can also track live updates, highlights and additional coverage via the International Paralympic Committee’s official website and its social media channels.