Winter Paralympics open in Verona

A rhythmic, inclusion-focused opening ceremony at Verona’s ancient Roman Arena marked the start of the Winter Paralympics, bringing artists with disabilities to the stage and seating athletes in a front row adapted for wheelchairs. The simultaneous lighting of the Paralympic cauldrons in Milan and Cortina featured Italian wheelchair fencer Beatrice “Bebe” Vio carrying the flame inside the 2,000-year-old venue, underscoring the event’s blend of historic setting and contemporary Paralympic symbolism.

The Milano Cortina Games will run with a record 611 athletes competing in 79 medal events across six sports, including the debut of wheelchair curling mixed doubles and first-time participation by El Salvador, Haiti, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Portugal. Events are staged across multiple locations—Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo and Val di Fiemme—mirroring the multi-site structure that drew praise during the recent Winter Olympics.

The ceremony emphasized unity, resilience and inclusion through music, choreography, light displays and large-scale projections. Organizers and International Paralympic Committee leaders invoked Paralympic values—courage, determination and equality—urging sport as a bridge amid geopolitical tensions. Thousands of spectators and athletes attended as delegations paraded, many receiving warm applause.

Political disputes, however, cast a shadow over participation. After the IPC’s decision to allow Russia and Belarus to compete under their full national symbols, several countries joined Ukraine in boycotting the athletes’ parade. Iran’s sole athlete withdrew from the Games, citing safety concerns linked to recent regional violence. Officials acknowledged absences tied to conflicts, travel restrictions and national decisions but stressed that competition would proceed with a focus on inclusion and fair play.

Competitions will span alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, biathlon, snowboarding and wheelchair curling, showcasing athletes’ athletic skill and endurance. Beyond medals, organizers say the Games aim to raise awareness about accessibility and opportunities for people with disabilities. Despite a fraught international backdrop, the opening night framed the Paralympics as a testament to solidarity and determination, offering a platform for athletes worldwide to compete and inspire.