Paralympic Roots Revisited

Wheelchair curling is making a significant return to Italy for the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, being held in Milano Cortina. This marks the sixth appearance of the sport at the Paralympics, and a special homecoming as it debuted on Italian ice at Torino 2006.

The games will run from March 6-15, 2026, with wheelchair curling action beginning on March 4th with mixed doubles round robin play.

New Event Format: Mixed Doubles

A key development for the 2026 Paralympics is the addition of a mixed doubles event to the wheelchair curling program. This complements the traditional mixed team format, offering athletes more opportunities to compete for medals at the Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium.

Contenders for Gold

The People’s Republic of China will be aiming for a third consecutive gold medal, following their success at Beijing 2022. Canada, with a history of success from 2006 to 2014, remains a strong contender, being the only team to have reached the podium at every Games.

Italy will return to the competition after a 16-year absence, hoping to improve upon their fifth-place finish at Vancouver 2010. Sweden will also be looking to secure their first wheelchair curling gold medal.

Schedule Highlights

• March 4: Wheelchair curling mixed doubles round robin begins.
• March 7: Wheelchair mixed team competition begins.
• March 11: Wheelchair mixed doubles medal games.
• March 14: Wheelchair mixed team medal game.

What is Wheelchair Curling?

Wheelchair curling is a Paralympic sport that emphasizes teamwork, and precision. Athletes with physical impairments in the lower body deliver stones from a seated position, using a delivery stick to propel them towards the center of the “house”. Unlike traditional curling, there is no sweeping, meaning the stone’s path is determined upon release.

Wheelchair curling is also a game of strategy. Strategies can include: blocking their opponents, aiming for the centre, and full takeouts.

paralympic.org

FAQ

• When are the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games? March 6-15, 2026.
• Where will the wheelchair curling events be held? Cortina D’Ampezzo, Italy.
• What new event is being added to wheelchair curling? A mixed doubles event.