Milano Cortina 2026: A look back at the unforgettable Opening Ceremonies
As we mark one month to go until the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympics, let's revisit some of the iconic moments from recent Paralympic Winter Games Opening Ceremonies 06 Feb 2026
With one month to go until the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, we are celebrating the journey to the Opening Ceremony at the historic Arena di Verona.
Titled “Life in Motion,” the Opening Ceremony on 6 March will feature contemporary art performances and live music, raising the curtain on 10 days of incredible competition.
As we look forward to the dazzling ceremony, let's revisit some of the iconic moments from recent Paralympic Winter Games Opening Ceremonies, starting with the last time Italy hosted the Games at Torino 2006.
Paralympic Winter Games Opening Ceremonies | 1992–2022 🎆
Torino 2006 Opening Ceremony
The Torino 2006 Opening Ceremony welcomed around 25,000 spectators and millions of viewers worldwide.
Centred on the theme “overcoming limitations,” the Ceremony concluded with Silvia Battaglio and Paralympian Aroldo Ruschioni lighting the Cauldron, concluding the Torch Relay that featured 126 people.
As the first Paralympic Winter Games in Italy, Torino 2006 brought together 474 Para athletes from 38 nations and marked the Paralympic debut of wheelchair curling.
Vancouver 2010 Opening Ceremony
A sold out crowd of 60,000 filled BC Place for the Vancouver 2010 Opening Ceremony.
Featuring hip hop dancer Luca “Lazylegz” Patuelli, the event carried the theme “One Inspires Many.” Athletes from 44 nations received a powerful ovation as they entered the stadium.
Sochi 2014 Opening Ceremony
The Sochi 2014 Opening Ceremony at Fisht Stadium showcased a volunteer cast of more than 2,500 performers.
With the theme “Breaking the Ice,” the Ceremony highlighted the need to break down barriers and stereotypes faced by people around the world every day.
PyeongChang 2018 Opening Ceremony
PyeongChang 2018 marked the first Paralympics in South Korea since Seoul 1988. The Ceremony opened with a powerful percussion performance led by Myeongjin Shin, joined by the Ga in Flower Dancers.
One of the most memorable moments came when Para ice hockey player Min Su Han climbed a slope using only a rope to pass the Paralympic torch to wheelchair curler Soonseok Seo, who lit the Cauldron alongside Olympic curler Eun jung Kim.
Beijing 2022 Opening Ceremony
Under the theme “Improve, Go Beyond and Together,” the Beijing 2022 Opening Ceremony delivered stunning visuals and emotional performances at the iconic Bird’s Nest, the first venue to host both the Summer and Winter Paralympic Opening Ceremonies.
Shuey Rhon Rhon, the Paralympic mascot inspired by Chinese red lanterns, glided onto the stage during the Parade of Nations, while a Paralympic waltz featuring performers with and without disabilities captivated viewers. The Cauldron was lit by four time Paralympic champion Duan Li.
Secure your tickets for the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games
Milano Cortina 2026, which takes place from 6-15 March 2026, is set to be the most beautiful Paralympic Winter Games yet. Ticket prices start at EUR 10 for children under 14, with approximately 89 per cent of the tickets available for EUR 35 or less.
For more information, please visit tickets.milanocortina2026.org
