Italian para-alpine skier Giacomo Bertagnolli and his guide Andrea Ravelli have crowned their Paralympic campaign with gold in the Men's Alpine Combined VI at Milano Cortina 2026.
The victory marks the culmination of an extraordinary medal collection for the Italian duo, who previously secured bronze and silver medals during the Games. Their gold medal performance in the alpine combined event demonstrates the pair's versatility across different alpine skiing disciplines and their ability to deliver under pressure on home snow.
The alpine combined is one of the most demanding events in para-alpine skiing, requiring athletes to excel in both slalom and downhill racing. Competitors must demonstrate technical precision in the slalom gates while also possessing the speed and courage needed for downhill racing. For visually impaired athletes competing in the VI category, this challenge is amplified, requiring absolute trust and synchronization between skier and guide.
Perfect Partnership on Home Snow
Bertagnolli and Ravelli's success at Milano Cortina 2026 highlights the strength of their partnership and their preparation for these Paralympics. Competing on Italian snow provided additional motivation for the duo, who delivered their best performance when it mattered most. The guide-skier relationship is crucial in para-alpine skiing, with the guide providing verbal instructions and skiing ahead to show the line through the course.
The hat-trick of medals across different events showcases the pair's consistency and competitive excellence throughout the Paralympic alpine skiing programme. Moving from bronze to silver and finally to gold tells a story of progression and determination across the competition schedule.
Paralympic Alpine Skiing at Milano Cortina
The Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympics have provided Italian athletes with the opportunity to compete in front of home crowds in the Italian Alps. The alpine skiing events have been a particular highlight, with Italy's para-alpine team taking advantage of familiar terrain and enthusiastic local support.
Bertagnolli and Ravelli's gold medal adds to Italy's medal tally and provides a memorable moment for the host nation. Their achievement in the combined event, which tests the full range of alpine skiing skills, represents the pinnacle of their Paralympic campaign and rewards their dedication to the sport.
