Japan Eyes Strong Showing at Milano-Cortina Paralympics with One Week to Go

By Barrier Free Japan

February 28 2026

TOKYO – With one week to go until the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games open on March 6, Japan is preparing for its 11th appearance at the Winter Paralympics, carrying a proud legacy in the competition. Since making its debut at the Innsbruck 1988 Paralympic Winter Games, Japan has won a total of 97 medals – 27 gold, 33 silver and 37 bronze – establishing itself as a consistent force in winter para sports.

Japanese athletes will compete in all six sports in Italy, including a return to wheelchair curling after qualifying for the first time since the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Winter Games. The para ice hockey team will also return to the Paralympic stage after missing the Beijing 2022 Paralympic Winter Games, featuring a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talent.

Headlining the delegation is nine-time Paralympic medalist Momoka Muraoka, who will aim for gold at her third consecutive Winter Games. Para snowboarder Junta Kosuda and wheelchair curler Aki Ogawa have been named Japan’s flagbearers for the Opening Ceremony.

The Games will run from March 6th until March 15th.