MILAN CORTINA, Italy – Arthur Bauchet, the celebrated French skier, saw his hopes for a historic triple gold medal haul at the 2026 Winter Paralympics take a hit during the first run of the slalom on Friday, March 15th. While Bauchet remains a force in para-skiing, a near fall and a significant time deficit have dashed his immediate ambitions for a third gold in Milan-Cortina.
The 25-year-old, who entered the competition as a clear favorite, struggled with his form early in the course, nearly losing control. He managed to stay upright, but the recovery cost him valuable time, finishing the first run a substantial 10.70 seconds behind the leader. Despite the setback, Bauchet completed the run and will participate in the second and final run scheduled for 13:30 local time (12:30 UTC).
“We don’t come to the Games to give up, also out of respect for everyone who spent the night working on the skis,” Bauchet told reporters following his run. “I know it’s over, I’m not going to kid myself. But at least I will have given it my all at these Games.”
Bauchet’s journey to the Paralympics has been marked by both triumph and adversity. He previously secured gold medals in the downhill and super-combined events at the 2022 Beijing Winter Paralympics, adding to his already impressive collection of Paralympic and World Championship medals. He is a quadruple vice-champion from Pyeongchang 2018, and a decorated athlete in the standing category, competing despite a condition called paraspasticity, a rare genetic disease that causes tremors.
The French team, however, isn’t without hope in the slalom. Jules Segers, who recently claimed a bronze medal in the super-G, currently sits in third place after the first run, positioning himself as a potential medal contender. Oscar Burnham is also in contention, currently fifth and less than a second off the podium. Burnham expressed a preference for his current position, stating, “This time I am the hunter, and I prefer this position.”
France is aiming to match its medal count from the 2022 Beijing Paralympics, where the delegation secured twelve medals. The team will be looking to Segers and Burnham, along with any potential gains in the second run from Bauchet, to achieve that goal.
Arthur Bauchet’s story is one of resilience and determination. Growing up in Grimaud, in the Var region of France, before relocating to Briançon in 2016 to train with the CSHB (Club des Sports d’Hiver de Briançon), he has overcome significant physical challenges to reach the pinnacle of his sport. His dedication and spirit continue to inspire, even in the face of disappointment.
The slalom competition continues with the second run later today, where Segers and Burnham will aim to secure medals for France, and Bauchet will look to finish strong despite the setback. The outcome will undoubtedly be closely watched by fans around the world.
The Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics are showcasing incredible athletic achievement and inspiring stories of perseverance. While Bauchet’s pursuit of a triple gold has encountered a hurdle, the Games continue to provide a platform for athletes to push their limits and demonstrate the power of the human spirit.
Next up: the second run of the men’s standing slalom at 13:30 local time (12:30 UTC). Stay tuned to Archysport for live updates and comprehensive coverage of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics.
Related reading
