Milan, Italy – Aurélie Richard, at just 20 years ancient, has already etched her name into the history of French Paralympic sport, securing a silver medal in the women’s downhill standing event at the 2026 Winter Paralympics in Milan-Cortina. The achievement marks France’s first medal of these Games, and signals the arrival of a major talent in para alpine skiing. The young skier, competing in her debut Paralympic Games, finished with a time of 1:23.71, just 1.71 seconds behind gold medalist Ebaa Aarsjoe.
Richard’s journey to the podium hasn’t been without its challenges. Born without her left forearm due to a condition called agenesis – the absence of formation of an organ – she has adapted to skiing with a natural imbalance, mirroring the experience of her role model, Marie Bochet, a decorated para alpine skier also born with a similar condition. “I’ve never really considered it a handicap, as I’ve almost always managed to do everything like everyone else, adapting when necessary,” Richard explained in an interview with Closer magazine.
A Silver Lining and a Determined Spirit
Despite aiming for gold, Richard expressed a mix of joy and disappointment after her run. “I’m very happy, but a little disappointed not to take the gold. I don’t realize it, it’s tears of emotion, of joy, of sadness and of fear because my descent wasn’t perfect,” she told France Télévisions, visibly moved. Her silver medal is a testament to her dedication and resilience, and a promising start to a Games where she hopes to contend for multiple medals.
Richard is competing in all para alpine skiing disciplines, but the downhill was her primary focus. Though, she remains ambitious, stating, “I feel great, I’m aiming for four medals.” This bold target underscores her confidence and determination to make a significant impact at the Milan-Cortina Games.
From Early Beginnings to International Success
Richard’s passion for skiing began at the remarkably young age of two and a half. She first hit the slopes in the club of Queyras before joining the handisport club of Briançon at age five. Her talent quickly became apparent, and at 13, she joined the French national team.
Her rise through the ranks has been impressive. She became a double youth Olympic champion in 2020, winning gold in both slalom and giant slalom. In 2023, she secured vice-world championship titles in both downhill and slalom. Her performance in the World Cup circuit has been equally strong, with 14 podium finishes in 16 races, including victories in four of the six downhills she entered. In 2025, she finished third overall in the World Cup standings, solidifying her position as a force to be reckoned with.
Overcoming Adversity: A Story of Resilience
Richard’s path to Paralympic glory hasn’t been without setbacks. She faced significant challenges in the form of two serious knee injuries. A ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in her right knee forced her to withdraw from the 2022 Winter Paralympics in Beijing. Then, in 2024, she suffered another ACL rupture, this time in her left knee. These injuries required extensive rehabilitation and demonstrated her unwavering commitment to returning to the sport she loves.
Despite the physical demands of her athletic career, Richard is also dedicated to her education. She is currently studying for a license in STAPS (Studies of Physical Activities and Sports) at the University of Grenoble, benefiting from accommodations that allow her to balance her rigorous training schedule with her academic pursuits.
Inspired by a Legend: The Influence of Marie Bochet
Aurélie Richard credits much of her confidence and success to the mentorship of Marie Bochet, one of the most decorated para alpine skiers of all time with eight Paralympic gold medals. Bochet, who also has an agenesis of the left forearm, has turn into a guiding figure for Richard. “She put her trust in me, she’s like a big sister, she shares a lot of things with me. She gives me at least one piece of advice every day. Now, we’re friends,” Richard shared with L’Équipe. Bochet’s experience and support have been invaluable to Richard as she navigates the challenges of elite competition.
What’s Next for Aurélie Richard?
Richard’s Paralympic schedule continues on Monday, March 9th, at 9:30 AM local time (9:30 AM CET / 3:30 AM EST) with the Super-G event. She will undoubtedly be looking to build on her silver medal success and continue her pursuit of her ambitious goal of four medals at these Games. Fans can follow her progress and the rest of the Milan-Cortina Winter Paralympics through official Paralympic channels and France Télévisions coverage.
The story of Aurélie Richard is one of determination, resilience, and inspiration. Her silver medal is not just a personal triumph, but a symbol of hope and possibility for athletes with disabilities around the world. She is a rising star in para alpine skiing, and her journey is one to watch closely.
