Who Are the First GB Athletes Selected for the Winter Paralympics?

The anticipation is building for the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics, with Neil Simpson leading the talented team representing Great Britain. As the first male athlete from the UK to win a gold medal at the Winter Paralympics, Simpson's achievements in Beijing continue to inspire. He will be joined by fellow accomplished athletes, including Para-Nordic skier Scott Meenagh and Para-snowboarders James Barnes-Miller and Ollie Hill, as they prepare for a competitive event scheduled from 6 to 15 March 2026.

Last updated: 15 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The Great Britain squad for the 2026 Winter Paralympics has begun to take shape, highlighting the excitement and expectation surrounding the upcoming Games. Chef de mission Phil Smith expressed his delight at announcing the first wave of athletes, which includes six competitors, and emphasised the wealth of experience they bring. With the Winter Games approaching in less than 80 days, the squad is gearing up for what promises to be a thrilling competition in Italy.

Key takeaways

• Neil Simpson, who won gold in Beijing, leads the first wave of athletes for GB at Milano-Cortina 2026.
• The Games will run from 6 to 15 March 2026, marking the 50th anniversary of the Winter Paralympics.
• New events include mixed doubles wheelchair curling, adding to the excitement of the competition.

Timeline: how we got here

Significant milestones leading to the upcoming Winter Paralympics include:

• 2022: Neil Simpson wins gold in Super-G and bronze in Super Combined at the Beijing Winter Paralympics.
• 2023: Scott Meenagh earns silver in the 12.5 km individual biathlon at the Para-Nordic World Championships.
• October 2023: First wave of athletes for Milano-Cortina 2026 is announced, with excitement building ahead of the Games.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The announcement of the first wave of athletes marks a significant moment in the lead-up to the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics. Athlete selections include Neil Simpson, Scott Meenagh, and Para-snowboarders James Barnes-Miller and Ollie Hill, paving the way for a competitive British presence at the Games.

What was already established

Neil Simpson's historic gold medal win in Beijing 2022 set a precedent for British athletes in winter sports, being the first male to achieve this feat. The success of the Team GB at the last Winter Games, where they secured six medals, has also raised expectations for the upcoming event.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The upcoming Winter Paralympics are expected to generate national pride and support for athletes, potentially boosting interest in winter sports among the public. Coverage of the Games will likely engage viewers and inspire future generations of athletes.

Businesses and jobs

As the Games approach, local businesses in Milan-Cortina can anticipate increased tourism, leading to a boost in jobs and economic growth. The Paralympics also encourage investment in sports infrastructure, which can have long-term benefits for the community.

Policy and regulation

The UK government is supportive of the country's participation in international sporting events, encouraging inclusivity and accessibility in sports. Ongoing discussions about inclusivity in sports policy will likely continue as the Winter Paralympics approach.

Numbers that matter

• 6: Total medals won by Great Britain at the Beijing 2022 Winter Paralympics, showcasing their competitive spirit.
• 50: The anniversary of the Winter Paralympics, marking five decades of inclusive sporting excellence.
• 80: Days remaining until the start of the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Paralympics: A major international multi-sport event for athletes with disabilities, held every four years.
• Chef de mission: The head of the national team for the Paralympics, responsible for managing the team and logistics.
• Super-G: A speed skiing event that combines elements of both downhill and giant slalom.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the Games draw closer, athletes will continue to train intensively while teams finalise their preparations. Expect further announcements regarding athlete selections and strategies for the upcoming competition.

Medium term (1–6 months)

The focus will shift to finalising team dynamics and ensuring athletes are well-prepared both mentally and physically for the challenges ahead. The anticipation will build as the profile of the Games increases in the media.

Signals to watch

• Key athlete performances in the lead-up to the Games, which may indicate form and readiness.
• Updates on team selections and any changes to the competition format or events.

Practical guidance

Do

• Follow the athletes' training schedules and performances in the lead-up to the Games.
• Engage with local events and initiatives supporting disability sports.
• Stay informed about the Games' schedules and coverage.

Don’t

• Underestimate the impact of the Paralympics on inspiring future athletes.
• Ignore the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in sports.
• Miss opportunities to support local businesses during the Games.

Checklist

• Review the confirmed athlete list for Great Britain.
• Mark important dates in your calendar for the Games.
• Research local events and support initiatives for athletes.
• Engage with online communities discussing the Paralympics.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

As preparations for the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics progress, uncertainties remain regarding the potential impact of global events on the Games. Ongoing discussions about athlete safety, accessibility measures, and the political landscape could influence participation and logistics. While the excitement grows, it is essential to remain mindful of these factors as the event approaches.

Bottom line

The upcoming Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics promise to be a historic event, showcasing the talents and determination of athletes like Neil Simpson and Scott Meenagh. With national pride at stake, the UK is poised to support its athletes as they aim for success on the international stage. Keep an eye on developments in the coming months as the countdown to the Games continues.

FAQs

Who is Neil Simpson?

Neil Simpson is a Para-Alpine skier who won gold in the Super-G and bronze in the Super Combined at the Beijing 2022 Winter Paralympics, becoming GB's first male Winter Paralympics gold medallist.

When are the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics?

The Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics will take place from 6 to 15 March 2026, marking the 50th anniversary of the Winter Paralympics.

What new events are included in the 2026 Winter Paralympics?

Mixed doubles wheelchair curling is the only new medal event added to the programme for the 2026 Winter Paralympics, expanding the competition's diversity.