Wheelchair Curling Kicks Off Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympics with New Mixed Doubles Event
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy – The Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games are underway, launching with the debut of mixed doubles wheelchair curling alongside the established mixed team event. Competition began on Wednesday, March 4th, and will continue through March 14th. This marks the 20th anniversary of wheelchair curling as a Paralympic sport, having first appeared at the Torino games in 2006. Unlike traditional Olympic curling, the wheelchair version emphasizes precise throwing over sweeping, and utilizes a delivery stick for stability. The games will feature a total of 81 wheelchair curling matches played at the Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, utilizing 132 handcrafted granite stones sourced from Ailsa Craig.
Wheelchair Curling Set to Expand at 2026 Milan Cortina Games
Wheelchair curling is rapidly gaining popularity and will see significant expansion at the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Paralympics. Teams will compete in both the traditional mixed team event and a newly introduced mixed doubles discipline. This marks a pivotal moment for the sport, showcasing its growing appeal and accessibility.
Precision and Strategy on the Ice
Wheelchair curling demands a unique blend of precision, strategy, and strength. Players skillfully slide 20-kilogram granite stones towards a target, known as the house. The sport debuted at the 2006 Winter Paralympics in Turin, Italy, and has steadily attracted a dedicated following. Unlike traditional curling, wheelchair curling does not involve sweeping, placing a greater emphasis on accurate stone delivery and strategic positioning.
Pro Tip: Mastering the delivery stick is crucial in wheelchair curling. Athletes use this tool to propel the stone from a stationary wheelchair, requiring exceptional control and technique.
The Granite Behind the Game
The stones used in wheelchair curling are not ordinary rocks. A total of 132 handcrafted granite stones will be used at the 2026 Games, sourced from Ailsa Craig, a volcanic plug formed approximately 60 million years ago. This specific granite is prized for its durability and consistent quality, ensuring fair play and optimal performance.
Competition Details and Scoring
The mixed team event follows a similar format to traditional curling, with teams alternating throws in “ends” to score points. Points are awarded for each stone closer to the center of the house (the tee) than any opponent’s stone. Matches consist of eight ends, with extra ends played in case of a tie. The team that scored in the previous end delivers the first stone in the following end, giving the opposing team the advantage of the “hammer” – the last stone thrown.
The mixed doubles discipline, latest to the 2026 Games, will feature teams of one male and one female athlete representing their country. The format will mirror that of traditional curling mixed doubles, adding another layer of excitement and competition.
Technical Rules and Athlete Requirements
Athletes must adhere to specific technical rules during delivery. Stones must be released between designated wheelchair lines, and athletes are prohibited from touching the ice with their feet. The wheels of the wheelchair must maintain contact with the ice throughout the delivery process. These regulations ensure fair play and emphasize the skill and precision required in wheelchair curling.
Event Schedule and Location
Wheelchair curling events will take place from Wednesday, March 4 to Friday, March 14, beginning before the Paralympics Opening Ceremony with mixed doubles round-robin play. All 81 wheelchair curling matches will be held at the Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium.
Did you know? Wheelchair curling requires pinpoint accuracy, as there is no sweeping allowed, demanding a different strategy than traditional curling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ‘hammer’ in wheelchair curling? The ‘hammer’ refers to the last stone thrown in an end, considered an advantage for scoring.
Is sweeping allowed in wheelchair curling? No, sweeping is not permitted in wheelchair curling.
Where does the granite for the stones come from? The granite comes from Ailsa Craig, a volcanic plug formed 60 million years ago.
What is the mixed doubles discipline? Mixed doubles involves one male and one female teammate representing a country, with a format similar to curling mixed doubles.
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