The Winter Paralympics opened on 6 March 2026 in Verona, Italy, with a colourful ceremony that celebrated unity and the talents of athletes with disabilities.
The event took place at the ancient Arena di Verona, a Roman amphitheatre, less than two weeks after the Winter Olympics ended in the same region. Leaders and performers welcomed teams from around the world as the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Games officially began.
The ceremony included music, dancing and performances by artists with disabilities. Athletes watched from a special front row designed to fit wheelchairs, showing that the event was built to include everyone. The show was called “Life in Motion” and focused on the idea that differences can be a source of strength.
International Paralympic Committee President Andrew Parsons spoke about the importance of unity during difficult times in the world. He said he prefers to know countries by the names of their athletes rather than by political leaders. Italy’s President, Sergio Mattarella, then declared the Games officially open.
Italian wheelchair fencing champion Bebe Vio carried the Paralympic flame into the arena before the cauldrons were lit in both Milan and Cortina. A total of 611 athletes from 55 nations will compete in the Games, making it the largest Winter Paralympics in history. They will take part in 79 medal events across six sports.
