Austrians Perfectly equipped for Milan Cortina Para Games by Alpha Turi

15 Austrian athletes and four guides received their equipment for the big highlight of this winter at the Red Bull Arena in Salzburg.

“The outfitting is always a very special moment. When our athletes put on the official collection for the first time, individual preparation becomes a shared goal. From that moment on, we are visibly a team,” emphasized ÖPC President Maria Rauch-Kallat, who was enthusiastic about the outfits. “The Paralympic Team Austria is equipped in a functional way, while also making a clear red-white-red statement for Italy. This collection stands for quality, for identity, and for the strong cohesion within our Paralympic family.”

For one day, the Red Bull Arena transformed from a football temple into the ultimate Paralympic meeting place. Amidst clothing racks, shoe boxes, and fitting mirrors, people marveled, laughed, and, of course, discussed all things sports. The conversation wasn't just about the sport itself, but also about fashion: "The new collection feels fantastic, is super comfortable, functional, and yet really stylish. Wearing the team outfit makes the anticipation for MILANO CORTINA even greater," said Veronika and Elisabeth Aigner, who beamed with pride at the last Winter Games in China, having won two gold medals.

For the athletes, the outfitting is the first tangible step towards the Paralympics – and thus also an emotional milestone on the road to the Games. "Outfitting day never becomes routine," laughs Markus Salcher, who is participating for the fifth time. "The moment you try on the clothing for the first time and meet the other athletes, you immediately feel that flutter in your stomach," says the 34-year-old seven-time medalist, who will be competing in the final races of his career on the legendary Tofana.

The comprehensive outfitting package covers all the requirements of a major Paralympic event – ​​from freezing temperatures to official engagements. The exclusive thermal clothing and presentation outfits for celebratory occasions come from lifestyle brand AlphaTauri. Training and leisure wear is supplied by Erima from its sustainable CELEBRATE 125 collection – functional, sustainably produced, and optimally tailored to the athletes' needs.

For secure footing on wintry surfaces, Salomon offers three different shoe models, including the true classic, the Speedcross 6 GTX. Eisbär contributes matching wool hats and headbands, while Ziener provides the gloves. The look is completed by sports and sunglasses from Athletes Eyewear. Together, these pieces create a collection that impresses both on and off the competition circuit.

ÖPC Secretary General Petra Huber emphasizes the importance of strong partnerships: “Our outfitters are far more than just suppliers – they are part of our team. With great professionalism and passion, a collection has been created that combines performance, identity, and sustainability. Special thanks also go to the Red Bull Arena in Salzburg, which provided us with this impressive venue for our outfitting. This environment gives our joint appearance an additional boost.”

Cross-country skier and biathlete Stefan Egger-Riedmüller, who, along with five other athletes, experienced an outfitting for the first time, was thrilled by the atmosphere in the “Bull Arena.” “It’s incredible what’s on offer here. It’s not a given that we get such cool gear and travel to Cortina perfectly equipped. Now the Paralympic spirit is really kicking in, especially because we can get to know each other better. I’m incredibly proud to be part of this team,” the Tyrolean athlete emphasizes.

Chef de Mission Patrick Mayrhofer, himself a silver medalist in para-snowboarding at the 2018 Paralympics, already has an advantage over Egger-Riedmüller. The 38-year-old from Upper Austria knows from personal experience the emotions athletes feel so close to the Games: “I remember my own outfitting very well. At that moment, a dream becomes a concrete goal. You feel pride, anticipation, and responsibility all at once. I want to tell our athletes not to let the hustle and bustle surrounding the Paralympics throw them off balance and to stick to their routines. At the same time, they should take in and enjoy the positive aspects, such as the opening and closing ceremonies or the medal ceremonies. Then I am convinced that they will also deliver their best performances.”

Even though the final roster wasn't yet confirmed on Wednesday, the outfitting, six days before the official nomination, was nonetheless a strong signal of unity and team building. Experienced athletes and potential newcomers exchanged ideas, while guides and athletes shone in the photo booths and during content shoots. "Regardless of what the final team looks like, every single member has achieved something extraordinary in recent months," emphasized Rauch-Kallat. "Now it's crucial to take the final steps with complete focus. We are convinced that our team will make a strong statement in Italy in every respect."

The official announcement of the final roster for the Milan 2026 Paralympic Winter Games will take place on February 24 (11:00 a.m.) during the nomination press conference at the Champions Sports Bar of the Vienna Marriott Hotel. There, the Paralympic Team Austria, which will represent Austria at the Games in Italy, will be presented – ready and inspired to leave its mark on the biggest stage of winter sports.