Italian President Sergio Mattarella officially opened the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Paralympics in Verona, Italy.
Themed "Life in Motion," the opening ceremony was held at the 2,000-year-old Verona Arena, an ancient Roman amphitheater and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The event highlighted contemporary art, including video design, music, and choreography.
This edition marks 50 years since the first Winter Paralympics were held in 1976, and is the first time the games have been held in Italy since Turin 2006.
The Paralympic flag is carried on stage during the opening ceremony of the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympic Games at the Verona Olympic Arena in Verona, Italy.
Members of the Chinese contingent parade during the opening ceremony of the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics at the Verona Olympic Arena in Verona, Italy.
Performers perform during the opening ceremony of the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics at the Verona Olympic Arena in Verona.
Members of the Chinese contingent parade during the opening ceremony of the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics at the Verona Olympic Arena in Verona, Italy.
