HeadlinesBriefing favicon HeadlinesBriefing.com

Paralympics Schedule Shifts Amid Climate Crisis

BBC Sport •
×

Athletes at Milan-Cortina Games have called for schedule changes as climate change transforms Winter Paralympics into spring-like competitions. British skier Fred Warburton described conditions as a "bathtub of Slush Puppie," with 18 of 37 athletes failing to complete the sitting slalom event. American snowboarder Brenna Huckaby emphasized safety concerns, refusing to risk further disability in deteriorating conditions.

The International Paralympic Committee acknowledges scheduling challenges, with chief brand officer Craig Spence noting the complex coordination between Olympic and Paralympic calendars. Research by University of Waterloo professor Daniel Scott suggests moving events to earlier in February or even separating the Games by two years to find more reliable snow conditions.

Only 10 countries will be able to host snow sports by 2040 due to climate impacts, forcing organizers to adapt. While higher altitude venues like Courchevel for 2030 may provide better conditions, the IPC remains committed to preserving the "integrity of competition" as both organizations face an uncertain future for winter sporting events.