Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy – The 14th Paralympic Winter Games in Italy officially came to a close Sunday evening with a vibrant closing ceremony themed “Italian Remembrance.” International Paralympic Committee (IPC) President Andrew Parsons declared the complete of the Games at 9:57 PM local time from the curling stadium in Cortina d’Ampezzo, shortly before the Paralympic flame was extinguished in both Milan and Cortina.
The Games, held across Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, were marked by both sporting achievement and political protest. While organizers celebrated record participation, several nations opted to boycott portions of the event, most notably the closing ceremony, in response to the participation of athletes from Russia and Belarus.
Only 44 of the 55 participating nations marched in the closing ceremony, with several countries declining to send flag bearers. Ukraine, Estonia, and Lithuania were among those who boycotted the ceremony, citing concerns over the presence of Russian and Belarusian athletes. Other nations did not participate due to athletes having departed earlier. Germany was represented by alpine skier Andrea Rothfuss and snowboarder Christian Schmiedt, who carried the German flag into the arena.
The discontent was evident even at the opening ceremony, where only 28 of the 55 participating nations were represented. Germany also chose to boycott the opening ceremony. A controversial decision by the IPC allowed Russian athletes to compete under their own flag and with their national anthem, a move that drew criticism from several nations.
Organizers Reflect on a Record-Breaking Games
In his closing remarks, IPC President Andrew Parsons hailed the Games as a resounding success. “These Paralympic Winter Games were a record-breaking success. The biggest and most beautiful Paralympic Winter Games. More athletes, more nations, more women and greater global coverage than ever before,” Parsons stated.
Giovanni Malago, President of the Italian Organizing Committee, emphasized the significance of the Games in a world grappling with conflict. “In a time when the drums of war and flags seem to prevail, we spoke together of peace, friendship, respect and inclusion. Against the images of brutality and destruction, we held up those of fair competition,” Malago said.
China and the United States Dominate the Medal Count
China topped the medal table with a significant lead, securing 15 gold, 13 silver, and 16 bronze medals. The United States finished second with 13 gold, 5 silver, and 6 bronze. Germany concluded the Winter Games in 11th place, marking its worst performance in the history of the Paralympic Winter Games, dating back 50 years. The German team, comprised of 40 athletes – its second-largest contingent ever – struggled to discover consistent success.
Looking ahead, the 2030 Winter Paralympics are slated to be held in the French Alps, while Los Angeles will host the Summer Games in 2028.
The Milan Cortina 2026 Paralympics will be remembered not only for the athletic achievements on display but also for the complex political backdrop that underscored the event. The Games sparked key conversations about inclusion, competition, and the role of sport in a world facing numerous challenges.
Andrew Parsons, who assumed the presidency of the IPC in September 2017, and was reelected in 2025, has consistently advocated for the growth and inclusivity of the Paralympic movement. Born in Brazil to Scottish parents, Parsons himself does not have a disability, a fact he acknowledges often surprises observers. He has previously served as chairperson of the Brazilian Paralympic Committee and the Americas Paralympic Committee.
The Games also highlighted the increasing visibility of para-athletes and the growing demand for greater representation in all levels of sport. The record number of athletes, nations, and women participating in Milan Cortina 2026 signals a positive trend towards a more inclusive and equitable sporting landscape.
While the Games have concluded, the legacy of Milan Cortina 2026 will undoubtedly continue to inspire athletes and advocates for disability rights around the world. The focus now shifts to preparations for the 2028 Summer Paralympics in Los Angeles and the 2030 Winter Games in the French Alps, as the Paralympic movement strives to build on the momentum generated in Italy.
The next major checkpoint for many of these athletes will be national championships and qualification events for the 2028 Summer Paralympics in Los Angeles. Fans can stay updated on athlete progress and upcoming events through the official IPC website: https://www.paralympic.org/.
