The Paralympic Games concluded in Cortina on Sunday with France finishing 6th in the medals table. The result was described as “frustrating” compared to the announced objectives.
Published on: March 16, 2026, 06:15
Reading time: 7 minutes
[Context: The French Paralympic team aimed for 18 medals and a top 4 finish but fell short with only 12 medals, resulting in frustration and the need for reflection on the competition level.]
The Winter Paralympics in Milan Cortina wrapped up on March 15 after the closing ceremony. Team France completed the event with 12 medals, including four golds, securing the 6th position overall. The goal set by the French delegation – 18 medals and a top 4 spot – was not achieved. While a detailed assessment is pending, early insights suggest room for improvement, as mentioned by French sports authorities.
Sportswise, the French delegation chose 13 athletes (plus four guides) recognized as potential medalists. The objective, set by the National Sports Agency and the Minister of Sports, Youth, and Community Life Marina Ferrari, was a top 4 finish with a 50% increase in medals compared to the previous Games, totaling 18. With only 12 medals won, placing France in 6th, the target was not met.
“We may speak of a form of frustration,” admitted Marie-Amélie Le Fur, president of the French Paralympic Sports Committee (CPSF). “On paper, this French team had great potential, with athletes who have performed well in the World Cup. But in some races, we fell a bit short. It was a matter of some tenths, some hundredths of a second.”
A critical review will follow in the coming weeks, addressing the need for better preparation and awareness of international competition standards. Key nations like China and Russia, notorious for their performance, made significant impacts, indicating a rise in competitive standards and a broader podium distribution.
[Fact Check: China topped the medal table with Russia in 3rd place, showcasing increased competition levels and larger podium shares.]
Improving France’s medal prospects will involve widening the talent pool, especially focusing on female athletes and diverse categories. The inclusion of 13 male athletes concentrated in standing categories across six sports might have limited the potential for medal surprises.
[Context: To enhance medal opportunities, France may need to expand its athlete diversity and talent sources, particularly focusing on female participation and varied sport categories.]
The aim is to develop new talents across all sports categories, aligning with strategies to compete effectively at the next Paralympic Games. Investing in nationwide programs engaging authorities, territories, and relevant sectors will be crucial for future success.
[Fact Check: To improve chances at the next Paralympics, France will focus on talent detection, especially in winter sports, with a plan to engage and elevate athlete density.]
Enhancing awareness among individuals with disabilities, promoting Paralympic movement knowledge, and ensuring mountain accessibility remain on the agenda. The upcoming months will be pivotal for defining new strategies and setting a course for 2030, marking the beginning of a new Paralympic era.
