MILAN, Italy – Italy’s Giuseppe Romele added to his Paralympic legacy on Sunday, securing a bronze medal in the men’s 20km sitting cross-country race at the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games. The result marks Romele’s second bronze medal at the Winter Paralympics, mirroring his achievement from Beijing four years prior.
The final cross-country event of the Milano Cortina 2026 Games saw Romele deliver a strong performance, finishing with a time of 57:17.1. He finished behind Russia’s Ivan Golubkov, who claimed gold with a time of 51:55.0, and China’s Mao Zhongwu, who took silver. This medal brings Italy’s total to 15 for the Games, an all-time record for the nation.
“The final was complicated, more than I thought,” Romele said after the race, as reported by sources. “Hopefully next year they will increase the races to 30 km, maybe I’ll wake up.”
The 20km sitting race is a grueling test of endurance and technique, requiring athletes to propel themselves across the snow-covered course using specialized skis and arm strength. For athletes competing in the sitting category, the race demands exceptional upper body power and strategic pacing. The Milano Cortina Games have showcased incredible athleticism across all disciplines, and this event was no exception.
Italy has enjoyed a remarkably successful Paralympics in Milan and Cortina, consistently adding to their medal count throughout the Games. The team’s performance has captivated the nation and provided a source of immense pride. This latest medal from Romele further solidifies Italy’s position as a leading force in Paralympic winter sports.
Also competing for Italy in the event were Michele Biglione, who finished 14th with a time of 4:06.5, and Giuseppe Spatola, who finished 26th with a time of 11:45.5. While they didn’t reach the podium, their participation highlights the growing depth of Italian talent in Paralympic cross-country skiing.
The Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympics have been a landmark event, showcasing the incredible abilities of athletes from around the globe. The Games have not only provided a platform for competition but also served to raise awareness and promote inclusivity. As the Games draw to a close, the focus now shifts to the future and the continued development of Paralympic sport.
Giuseppe Romele’s bronze medal is a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and skill. It’s a moment he will undoubtedly cherish, and a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes in Italy and beyond. The athlete’s comments about hoping for longer races in the future suggest a continued ambition to push his limits and compete at the highest level.
The next major event for Paralympic cross-country skiing will be the World Championships, scheduled for next season. Athletes will now turn their attention to training and preparation for these championships, aiming to build on the successes of the Milano Cortina Games.
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