MILAN, ITALY – Despite sending a smaller delegation than in recent years, France is heading into the Paralympic Winter Games in Milan-Cortina with high expectations. Marie-Amélie Le Fur, President of the French Paralympic and Sports Committee, expressed unwavering confidence in the team’s potential, stating, “100% of this team is capable of winning a medal.” The Games are set to begin on March 6, 2026, and will showcase athletes from around the globe competing in a variety of winter sports.
This year’s French team consists of 13 athletes and 4 guides, a significant reduction from the squad that competed at the Paralympic Games in Paris two years prior. The smaller size doesn’t appear to dampen the spirits of Le Fur, who herself is a decorated Paralympian with nine medals across multiple Games – two silver in Beijing, three in London, three including two golds in Rio, and a silver in Tokyo. She was elected president of the French Paralympic and Sports Committee in December 2018, and played a key role in organizing the successful Paris 2024 Paralympics.
Le Fur’s own athletic journey is a testament to resilience and determination. Beginning athletics at the age of six, she initially aspired to grow a professional firefighter. However, her life took an unexpected turn on March 31, 2004, when a scooter accident resulted in the amputation of her left leg below the knee. Despite this life-altering event, Le Fur remarkably returned to running just four months later, on July 31, 2004. She quickly connected with the French Handisport Federation, seeking a positive outlet for herself and her family following the accident.
The athlete’s dedication led to a remarkable Paralympic career. She has achieved success in various disciplines including the 100m, 200m, 400m, and long jump. Her personal best in the long jump stands at an impressive 6.14 meters, set in 2021, and she holds the world record in the 400m with a time of 59.27 seconds, achieved in 2016. Beyond the Paralympics, Le Fur has accumulated twelve medals at World Championships, including four gold medals, and three medals at European Championships.
Whereas the specific athletes competing in Milan-Cortina haven’t been widely publicized, Le Fur’s comments suggest a focused and highly motivated team. The reduced team size may necessitate a strategic approach, concentrating resources on athletes with the strongest medal potential. It’s a shift that requires careful planning and a deep understanding of each athlete’s capabilities.
The Paralympic Winter Games in Milan-Cortina are expected to draw significant attention, building on the momentum generated by the successful Paris 2024 Games. The event provides a platform for athletes with disabilities to showcase their extraordinary talent and inspire audiences worldwide. The Games likewise highlight the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in sports.
Le Fur’s leadership is crucial as the French team navigates the challenges and opportunities presented by the Milan-Cortina Games. Her personal experience as an athlete, combined with her administrative role, provides a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the needs of Paralympic athletes. She understands the dedication, perseverance, and mental fortitude required to compete at the highest level.
The French team’s performance in Italy will be closely watched, not only by fans in France but by the global Paralympic community. Le Fur’s bold statement – that every member of the team is a medal contender – sets a high bar, but it also reflects a belief in the talent and potential of the athletes she leads. The Games represent a chance for these athletes to achieve their dreams and inspire a new generation of Paralympians.
Following the opening ceremony on March 6th, the competition schedule will be packed with events across various disciplines, including alpine skiing, biathlon, cross-country skiing, ice hockey, snowboarding, and wheelchair curling. Fans can follow the French team’s progress through official Paralympic channels and French sports media outlets.
The next major update will come as the competition gets underway in Milan-Cortina, with results and highlights available on the official Paralympic website. Stay tuned for further coverage as the French team aims to deliver on Le Fur’s confident prediction.
What are your predictions for the French Paralympic team in Milan-Cortina? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
