The Milano-Cortina Winter Paralympics concluded with a boycotted closing ceremony by Ukraine, following the United States Para ice hockey team’s gold medal win. These Games saw the return of the Russian flag and national anthem. China emerged as the top medal-winning nation with 15 golds, surpassing the United States by two gold medals. Notably, these Games marked the 50th anniversary of the Winter Paralympics.
Russian athletes competed under their flag for the first time since the 2014 Sochi Winter Games, leading to the playing of the Russian anthem multiple times at Milano Cortina. Ukraine protested against the Russian presence, boycotting both the opening and closing ceremonies.
The Winter Paralympics featured a record 611 Para athletes from 55 countries, making it the largest Winter Paralympics to date. China topped the medal table with 44 medals, while the United States claimed 24 medals. The Games were widely broadcast, reaching a record 126 countries.
The next Winter Paralympic Games in 2030 will take place in the French Alps, with discussions underway to potentially introduce new sports and accommodate additional disability groups.