Hernandez and Broisin to Lead France into the 2026 Winter Paralympics

Milan, Italy – As the Olympic flame fades, the spotlight shifts to the Winter Paralympics, set to begin this Friday, March 6th, 2026, in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo. France will be led into the Games by two inspiring athletes: snowboarder Cécile Hernandez and skier Jordan Broisin, both selected by their peers to carry the French flag. Their selection isn’t just symbolic. it’s a testament to years of dedication, resilience, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of athletic achievement. This year’s Jeux paralympiques d’hiver will see the French team aiming for a top-four finish in the medal count.

Cécile Hernandez: A Champion’s Return

Cécile Hernandez’s journey to the Paralympics is a story of overcoming adversity. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in October 2002, Hernandez rediscovered her passion for sport through snowboarding in 2013, a discipline she had enjoyed prior to her illness. Remarkably, she qualified for the 2014 Paralympic Games within months of taking up the sport competitively. At those Games, she narrowly missed gold, finishing just 36 hundredths of a second off the top spot.

Eight years later, at the 2022 Beijing Paralympics, Hernandez achieved a career milestone, winning her first Paralympic gold medal in snowboard cross. This victory was particularly poignant, as her participation in the Games had initially been in doubt. The International Paralympic Committee had initially removed her category, but ultimately allowed her to compete just days before the events, despite facing athletes with less severe impairments.

At 51 years old, Hernandez faced uncertainty about competing in Milan-Cortina. Battling recurring injuries and a challenging start to the season, she even considered retirement. However, with the support of her psychologist, she found renewed motivation. “For me, being chosen is an honor, a source of pride, a commitment, a motivation, and above all, a mission. Today, I am very happy to carry the flag,” Hernandez shared recently. She’s prepared to compete in both the snowboard cross and banked slalom events, aiming to add to her impressive Paralympic medal collection.

Jordan Broisin: A Final Slalom and a Long-Fought Recognition

Like Hernandez, Jordan Broisin will be competing in what are expected to be his final Paralympic Games. A standing skier, Broisin’s path to the Paralympics began after losing his left leg in a 2009 motorcycle accident. He embarked on a rigorous rehabilitation process, determined to return to the slopes. He debuted at the 2018 Paralympic Games, but faced challenges competing against fully-abled athletes.

Broisin has also faced an ongoing battle for recognition of a disability affecting his left shoulder, stemming from the same accident that led to his amputation. The injury impacts his balance and performance, but his attempts to have it officially acknowledged by international governing bodies have been unsuccessful. Despite this, he has persevered, achieving his first international podium finishes.

The 2023 season marked a breakthrough for Broisin, as he secured a silver medal at the World Championships in his signature event, the slalom. His dedication and resilience have earned him the respect of his peers, culminating in his selection as a flag bearer. “I didn’t necessarily expect it, but it’s a great honor. Wow!” Broisin exclaimed upon learning of his selection. “I grasp it’s not necessarily my medals that have shone, but more my commitment over these twelve years. And to see that my peers have recognized that and trust me in this role is a great source of pride.”

Whereas Hernandez and Broisin will not participate in the opening ceremony due to the distance between their competition venues and Verona, they will carry the French flag during the closing ceremony on March 15th. Their selection, determined by a vote of their fellow athletes, underscores their impact both on and off the slopes. The French delegation is aiming for a top-four finish in the medal standings, and Hernandez and Broisin will undoubtedly play a key role in that pursuit.

The 2026 Winter Paralympics promise to be a showcase of incredible athleticism and inspiring stories. With Hernandez and Broisin leading the charge, France is poised to make a significant impact on the world stage.

What’s Next: The Winter Paralympics officially begin on Friday, March 6th with the opening ceremony in Verona. Keep an eye on Archysport for continued coverage of the Games, including results, analysis, and athlete profiles.

What are your predictions for the French team at the Milan-Cortina Paralympics? Share your thoughts in the comments below!