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Milan-Cortina 2026 Paralympics: France Télévisions secures Exclusive Broadcast Rights, Boosting Para-Sports Visibility
October 26, 2023
Following their prosperous coverage of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, France Télévisions has once again secured exclusive, unencrypted broadcast rights for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympic Games. This notable agreement, announced by the public broadcaster and the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), ensures that french viewers will have extensive access to all the thrilling action from March 6 to 15, 2026.This commitment underscores a growing trend in sports broadcasting: prioritizing accessibility and visibility for para-sports.
Unprecedented Access for French Fans
France Télévisions will deploy its full broadcast arsenal, with live and continuous coverage planned across France 2, France 3, and the digital platform France.tv. This multi-channel approach mirrors the strategy employed for major sporting events like the Super Bowl or the Olympics, ensuring fans don’t miss a single moment of their national heroes’ performances. A dedicated daily panel will dissect key moments and celebrate the achievements of Paralympic athletes, offering in-depth analysis akin to post-game shows for the NBA Finals.
A strategic Move for Para-Sports Advancement
This broadcast strategy aligns directly with a core mission of the French paralympic and Sports Committee (CPSF): to elevate the media profile of para-sports. Delphine Ernotte Cunci, President and CEO of France Télévisions, emphasized this commitment, stating, “France Télévisions is proud to continue its historic commitment to the visibility of para-sports by mobilizing its antennas to bring the milan-Cortina 2026 Paralympic Games to all French people.” This proactive stance by a major public broadcaster is crucial for fostering greater understanding and appreciation of para-athletes, much like how dedicated coverage of the Women’s World Cup has amplified the sport’s popularity.
New Digital Channel to Enhance Year-Round Engagement
Beyond the live event coverage, France Télévisions is launching a dedicated 100% sports digital channel on france.tv during the Winter Games. This initiative aims to provide year-round visibility and accessibility for sports content,particularly para-sports. This move is a forward-thinking strategy, recognizing the potential for digital platforms to cultivate dedicated fan bases, similar to how specialized sports streaming services have emerged for niche sports or leagues.
“The launch during the Winter Games of a 100% sports digital channel on france.tv will strengthen its visibility and accessibility throughout the year, to all audiences,” Ernotte Cunci added. This continuous engagement model is vital for building sustained interest and support for para-athletes, moving beyond the episodic attention often given to major international events.
France’s Ambitions and the Road to 2030
The French delegation, which finished fourth in the medal standings at the Beijing 2022 Winter Paralympics, will be looking to build on that success in milan-Cortina. This event also serves as a crucial stepping stone towards the 2030 Winter Paralympics and Olympic Games, which are slated to be held in the french Alps. The increased media exposure from the Milan-Cortina Games will undoubtedly play a role in galvanizing national support and interest
