MILAN CORTINA, Italy – The French Paralympic team concluded its competition at the Milan Cortina 2026 Games with a total of 12 medals, falling short of initial expectations and finishing sixth in the overall medal count. While Anthony Chalençon’s bronze in para cross-country skiing on Sunday brought the tally to a dozen, the team’s performance represents a step back from the seven gold medals secured at the Beijing 2022 Paralympics. The initial goal of 18 medals and a top-four finish proved elusive for the French delegation.
The final day of competition saw 10 French athletes competing in para alpine skiing and cross-country skiing, but only Chalençon, guided by Florian Michelon, managed to reach the podium. Chalençon’s bronze in the 20km free technique cross-country event marked a bittersweet end to the Games, a testament to perseverance after a challenging week for the team.
Arthur Bauchet, a pre-competition favorite in the slalom, was unable to capitalize on his potential, missing out on a third medal opportunity. He faltered in the first run, losing valuable time and ultimately finishing 11th. The missed opportunity underscored a pattern of near misses for several French athletes throughout the Games.
“My assessment of the Games is clearly mixed, finishing like this is tough, I was hoping for much better,” Bauchet admitted, even before completing his second run where he posted the fastest time, a result that only amplified his disappointment. This sentiment echoed throughout the French team as the Games drew to a close.
Despite the overall shortfall, there were bright spots for France. A new generation of athletes emerged, demonstrating promise for future competitions. Aurélie Richard, at just 20 years old, secured four medals in alpine skiing – three silver and one bronze – in her Paralympic debut. Karl Tabouret, 22, claimed gold in the 10km classic cross-country event, marking a significant achievement in his first Paralympic appearance.
However, missed opportunities also weighed on the team’s performance. The French snowboarders failed to deliver in the Banked Slalom event, and the biathlon team was unable to secure any medals. These shortcomings contributed to the team’s lower overall ranking compared to previous Games.
Chalençon’s victory, achieved alongside his guide Florian Michelon, provided a much-needed boost to the French team’s morale. The pair overcame early-season challenges to secure the bronze, finishing eight seconds ahead of Germany’s Lennart Volkert. The result highlighted the importance of the guide-athlete partnership in para sports, and the dedication required to succeed at the highest level.
The French team’s performance at Milan Cortina raises questions about their trajectory heading towards the 2030 Winter Paralympics. While the emergence of young talent is encouraging, addressing the inconsistencies and maximizing medal potential will be crucial for future success. The team will undoubtedly analyze its performance in detail, identifying areas for improvement and refining its strategies for upcoming competitions.
The Milan Cortina Games showcased the incredible athleticism and determination of para athletes from around the world. For France, the experience served as both a celebration of achievement and a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead. The team’s focus will now shift towards preparation for future events, with the goal of returning to the top of the Paralympic medal table.
The closing ceremony in Cortina d’Ampezzo is scheduled for Sunday evening, marking the official end of the 2026 Winter Paralympics. The Games have provided a platform for athletes to showcase their abilities and inspire audiences worldwide. As the Paralympic flame is extinguished, the focus will turn to the next chapter in the Paralympic movement, and the continued pursuit of inclusivity and excellence in sport.
Looking ahead, the French team will be closely monitoring the development of its young athletes and investing in programs designed to support their progress. The team will also prioritize strengthening its coaching staff and implementing innovative training techniques to enhance performance. The ultimate goal is to build a sustainable Paralympic program that consistently delivers results on the world stage.
The French Paralympic Committee will conduct a thorough review of the Milan Cortina Games, assessing the team’s strengths and weaknesses. This review will inform the development of a strategic plan for the future, outlining specific objectives and timelines for achieving success. The committee will also engage with stakeholders, including athletes, coaches, and sponsors, to gather feedback and ensure that the plan reflects the needs of the entire Paralympic community.
The 2026 Winter Paralympics in Milan Cortina have concluded, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration and achievement. While the French team’s performance fell short of expectations, the Games provided valuable lessons and highlighted the importance of continued investment in para sport. As the Paralympic movement continues to grow, France remains committed to supporting its athletes and promoting inclusivity in sport.
The next major event on the Paralympic calendar is the 2027 Winter World Games, which will provide an opportunity for athletes to compete and showcase their skills. The French team will be looking to build on the experience gained at Milan Cortina and make a strong showing at the World Games. Stay tuned to Archysport for continued coverage of para sport and the latest updates from the French Paralympic team.
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