With the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina, Italy, just days away, concerns arise due to the conflict in the Middle East impacting air travel for many contingents heading to Europe. The conflict is expected to disrupt travel plans, especially for teams transiting through major Middle East hubs like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha. The International Paralympic Committee is closely monitoring the situation to assess its potential impact on the upcoming games.
The IPC is actively gathering and evaluating information regarding missile strikes in the Middle East to understand the implications for the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games and the broader Paralympic Movement. The organization acknowledges the significant effects on not only the National Paralympic Committees participating in the Games but also its wider membership, expressing solidarity with those affected by the crisis.
In response to the challenges posed by the conflict, the IPC is evaluating the operational impact on the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, particularly concerning travel logistics, while emphasizing its commitment to delivering a successful event that promotes social inclusion for the global population of 1.3 billion individuals with disabilities. The IPC is collaborating with delegations and the organizing committee to address potential delays in the arrival of some teams for the event in Italy.
Assuring stakeholders of its proactive approach, the IPC is maintaining communication with all teams and relevant parties involved in the Games, acknowledging the disruption caused by the closure of airspace in the Middle East. While refraining from commenting on specific delegations’ statuses currently, the IPC is dedicated to working diligently with Milano Cortina 2026 to find suitable solutions for all affected parties. Despite the challenges, the IPC remains committed to ensuring a safe, secure, and remarkable Paralympic Games experience in Italy’s captivating venues.
