Italy readies 2026 Milan‑Cortina Paralympics and Taranto Mediterranean Games

The closing ceremony of the 2026 Milan‑Cortina Winter Paralympic Games highlighted the event’s legacy for inclusion and accessibility in Italy. Minister for Disabilities Alessandra Locatelli praised the Games as a catalyst for cultural change, while athletes such as René De Silvestro and Manuel Perathoner celebrated historic performances, including Italy’s fourth‑place finish and the nation’s highest ever medal count. Organisers stress that the temporary venues and infrastructure upgrades will remain as lasting assets for disabled sport.

Meanwhile, Minister for Sport Andrea Abodi marked the approaching 2026 Mediterranean Games in Taranto, noting that the programme will host 4,000 athletes and offer a richer, more intense schedule than the winter Paralympics. With €300 million earmarked for facilities and additional €25 million for organization, the Games are positioned as a “bridge of peace” that will showcase Taranto’s renewal beyond its industrial challenges. Both events are intended to boost Italy’s international sporting profile and promote social cohesion through sport.