sports
March 5, 2026
Winter Paralympics 2026: Who are Australia's Top Medal Contenders?
From the first Indigenous Winter Paralympian to a 52-year-old who is back after nearly 20 years away, who to look out for at Milano Cortina
TL;DR
- Australia has a strong history in the Winter Paralympics, having won a medal at every Games since 1992.
- The Australian team for the Milano Cortina Paralympics includes 12 para-athletes and two guides across four sports.
- Amanda Reid, a dual Summer Paralympics gold medallist, is set to become Australia's first Indigenous Winter Paralympian and is a top medal contender in para-snowboarding.
- Lauren Parker, a Summer Paralympics champion, is transitioning to winter sports, competing in biathlon and cross-country skiing.
- Michael Milton, Australia's most successful Winter Paralympian, aims for a comeback at 52, needing medical clearance after a training injury.
- Josh Hanlon, who switched to para-alpine skiing after a life-changing infection, has qualified for all five para-alpine disciplines.
- The return of Australia to para-biathlon after a 20-year absence is highlighted by the participation of Lauren Parker and three other athletes.
- Liana France will become Australia's youngest female Winter Paralympian at 16 in para-alpine skiing.
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