Paralympic Winter Games 2026 Open in Verona with Historic Ceremony

The Milan Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games officially commenced on Friday, March 6, 2026, with an opening ceremony held at the Arena di Verona, marking a historic first as the first Paralympic ceremony to take place at a UNESCO World Heritage site . The Games will run until March 15, featuring over 660 athletes from 56 countries competing in six sports.

A Historic Venue and Symbolic Opening

The Arena di Verona, a remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater dating back to the first century AD , provided a stunning backdrop for the ceremony. The arena has undergone retrofitting with wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms to enhance accessibility for the Games . The opening ceremony featured performances by The Police drummer Stewart Copeland and Italian house music trio Meduza .

Flame Lighting and Journey to Italy

The Paralympic Flame was lit on February 24, 2026, in Stoke Mandeville, United Kingdom, the birthplace of the Paralympic Movement . Millie Knight of Great Britain and Andrea Macrì of Italy simultaneously lit the flame . The flame then began an 11-day journey to Italy, culminating in the opening ceremony at the Arena di Verona .

Games Amidst Global Challenges

The Milan Cortina 2026 Games mark the 50th anniversary of the Winter Paralympics. The ceremony acknowledged the challenges of the current global landscape, including the absence of some nations due to geopolitical conflicts and travel disruptions . For nations unable to attend in person, pre-recorded videos of flagbearers and their teams were shown.

A Message of Inclusion and Possibility

IPC President Andrew Parsons emphasized the Games’ message of inclusivity and the potential of Paralympic athletes. He stated that Paralympians are “ready to redefine possibility, push the boundaries of human ability and show what humans can achieve when respected and provided with chances to succeed” . Parsons also highlighted the Games’ ability to transform attitudes and inspire individuals worldwide.

Verona’s Role and Regional Accessibility

While no competitions are scheduled to take place in Verona itself, the city serves as a symbolic starting point for the Games . Verona’s location in northern Italy provides simple access to other key areas, including Lake Garda, the Dolomites, and Valpolicella wine country .