The Opening Ceremony of the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games is set to deliver a spectacular start to the global event on 6 March at the historic Verona Olympic Arena. Beginning at 8:00 p.m. CET, the ceremony will blend music, art, and performance to celebrate inclusion, resilience, and the power of sport.
Several renowned artists and performers have been confirmed to take the stage, promising a memorable evening that reflects the spirit of the Paralympic movement.
Stewart Copeland
Legendary drummer Stewart Copeland will be one of the headline performers. Best known as a founding member of the iconic rock band The Police, Copeland rose to international fame with hits such as “Every Breath You Take,” “Roxanne,” and “Message in a Bottle.” Beyond his work with the band, he has built a successful career composing film scores and orchestral works, bringing his unique musical style to audiences around the world.
Meduza
Italian electronic music trio Meduza will also perform during the ceremony. The group—comprised of Luca de Gregorio, Mattia Vitale, and Simone Giani—became global sensations with their breakout track “Piece of Your Heart,” which topped charts across multiple countries and amassed billions of streams worldwide.
Mimì Caruso
Rising Italian singer Mimì Caruso is another key performer on the lineup. Known for blending soul, R&B, and contemporary influences, Caruso has quickly emerged as one of the most distinctive voices in Italy’s modern music scene. Her powerful storytelling and emotive vocals have resonated strongly with younger audiences.
Dardust
Composer and producer Dardust—also known as Dario Faini—will play a central role in shaping the ceremony’s musical identity. As the official composer of the Paralympic Games soundtrack, he will combine piano melodies with electronic elements to bring the ceremony’s theme, “Life in Motion,” to life. Dardust is widely regarded as one of Italy’s most influential contemporary producers, with more than 100 platinum records to his name.
Chiara Bersani
Acclaimed performer and choreographer Chiara Bersani will contribute a powerful artistic performance. Known for her work in contemporary theatre and dance, Bersani’s projects explore themes of identity, diversity, and human connection. She currently serves as an associate artist at the Triennale Milano Theatre.
Miky Bionic
DJ Miky Bionic, whose real name is Michele Specchiale, will also appear during the ceremony. A trailblazer in the music world, he is the first DJ to perform using an advanced myoelectric prosthesis, allowing him to operate vinyl decks and mixers with exceptional precision. His performance symbolizes innovation, determination, and the limitless potential of adaptive technology.
A Celebration of Inclusion
With a lineup that spans rock legends, electronic music stars, rising singers, and groundbreaking performers, the Opening Ceremony aims to celebrate creativity and diversity. The event will officially launch the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, setting the stage for days of inspiring competition and unforgettable moments in winter sport.
