The FISIP has chosen Gianfranco Paglia as the new Ambassador of Paralympic Winter Sports. Paratrooper Officer and Gold Medal for Military Valor, Lieutenant Colonel Paglia is not only a symbol of resilience: he is a credible, concrete voice, capable of transforming sport into a social message. And his appointment comes at the right time, as Italy is already looking towards Milano Cortina 2026 and the growth of the Paralympic movement in the territory.
It is not a “representative” position placed there for prestige. The Federation relies on Paglia because, for years, his commitment has moved on a broader plane than competition: it is a commitment that speaks of accessibility, real opportunities, and a culture of inclusion, with initiatives that focus on a simple but decisive question: what tools do we provide people to truly overcome barriers?
Among the most recognizable activities is the skiing challenge “2 Ore No Limits”, which Paglia faces together with the Italian Paralympic Nordic Skiing Team. It is a tough test, yes, but above all clear in its meaning: to demonstrate that limits do not coincide with disability, and that willpower truly works when it meets support, method, and adequate conditions.
On December 20th a new assault on the record in Armentarola
The calendar now marks another key appointment: in two days, this December 20th, in Armentarola (Val Badia), Paglia will return to the track for a new edition of the “2 Ore No Limits”, with a precise goal: to improve his own record.
Last January 31st he set a personal record of 11.680 km in two hours in Paralympic Nordic skiing. Now he aims higher, with the same approach: to transform the sports performance into a direct message — and impossible to ignore — for society and institutions.
Because here it is not just about the “athlete's challenge”. Here it is about citizenship: equal opportunities, dignity, respect. And the still current need to reiterate that people with disabilities cannot and must not be treated as second-class citizens.
Beyond the race: a role that speaks to the country
The scope of the initiative is also measured by the presences that accompany and support it: from Manuela Di Centa, icon of Nordic skiing, to Mara Navarria, up to Isabella Rauti, Undersecretary of Defense. An important signal: when such diverse figures converge on a project, it means that the project is not just sporting. It is cultural.
And it is precisely here that the FISIP appointment gains weight. As an Ambassador, Paglia becomes a point of reference in the narrative of Paralympic winter sports: a spokesperson for resilience and equal opportunities, but also a multiplier of attention and awareness, in a journey that from today to Milano Cortina 2026 will not be made only of races and organization, but also — and above all — of mentality.
In other words: this appointment does not only celebrate what Paglia has already done. It strengthens what he will continue to do: bringing sport where it really matters, that is, into society.
From our side, a heartfelt thank you for the contribution that Commander Paglia continues to offer to the country with his daily commitment.
Thank you!
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