Chiara Mazzel Secures Silver in Giant Slalom at Milan Cortina 2026 Paralympics

Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy – Italian skier Chiara Mazzel added to her impressive medal count at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics, winning a silver medal in the women’s vision-impaired giant slalom on Thursday, March 12, 2026. This marks her fourth medal of the Games, bringing Italy’s total medal tally to ten.

Mazzel’s Performance

Competing with guide Fabrizio Casal, Mazzel delivered a strong performance on the Olympia delle Tofane slope. She completed the first run in 1 minute and 10.11 seconds and improved her pace in the second run, recording the fastest split time of 1 minute and 11.08 seconds. Her combined time of 2 minutes and 21.19 seconds secured the silver medal. La Milan reports that this is her fourth consecutive medal at the Games.

Competition Results

The gold medal was won by Austria’s Veronika Aigner, accompanied by guide Eric Digruber. Aigner secured her third gold medal of these Paralympics, bringing her career Paralympic gold medal tally to five, including previous successes at Beijing 2022. The Austrian Elina Stary, with guide Stefan Winter, claimed the bronze medal.

Italy’s Medal Count

With Mazzel’s silver, Italy now has ten medals at the Milan Cortina 2026 Paralympics, including three gold medals. ANSA reports that Mazzel’s medal is her fourth of the Games, following a gold in Super-G and silver medals in the downhill and combined events.

Controversies Surrounding the Games

The Paralympics have not been without controversy. The Ukrainian Paralympic Committee has voiced concerns over what they describe as “discriminatory, disrespectful and unacceptable” treatment of their delegation. These concerns include the removal of the Ukrainian flag from the Paralympic village, requests for athletes to remove Ukrainian symbols and alleged interruptions of team meetings by IPC and organizing committee members.

Looking Ahead

Chiara Mazzel’s continued success is a highlight for Italy at the Milan Cortina 2026 Paralympics. As the Games progress, all eyes will be on the remaining competitions and the pursuit of further medals.