China Announces Flagbearers for Milano Cortina Winter Paralympics China has officially selected para Alpine skier Liu Sitong and para snowboarder Ji Lijia as the country’s flagbearers for the opening ceremony of the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Paralympics. The announcement was made by the Chinese delegation on Thursday, marking the first step in preparations for the event. Liu Sitong, 31, will compete in her third Winter Paralympics, having previously participated in the 2018 PyeongChang Games and the 2022 Beijing Winter Paralympics. During the 2022 event, she secured a silver medal in the women’s slalom and three bronze medals across other events. She will take part in five para Alpine disciplines at Milano Cortina, a demanding schedule that requires both physical endurance and mental resilience. Ji Lijia, 23, is a rising star in para snowboarding. He claimed gold in the men’s snowboard cross SB-UL and silver in the banked slalom SB-UL at the 2022 Beijing Winter Paralympics. Building on his success, Ji won both events at the 2025 World Championships, solidifying his status as a top contender. At Milano Cortina, he will compete in both snowboard cross and banked slalom, showcasing his versatility and skill. The opening ceremony of the Winter Paralympics is scheduled for Friday in Verona, Italy, where athletes from around the world will gather to celebrate the spirit of the Games. The event will serve as a symbolic start to the competition, highlighting the determination and excellence of Paralympic athletes. Both Liu and Ji represent China’s growing strength in winter Paralympic sports, with their achievements reflecting years of dedication and training. Their roles as flagbearers underscore their importance to the nation’s delegation and their contributions to the global Paralympic movement.#china #liu_sitong #ji_lijia #milano_cortina_winter_paralympics #verona
