Andorran Para-Skier Roger Puig Heads to 2026 Winter Paralympics in Peak Form

Roger Puig is set to depart for Cortina d'Ampezzo this Sunday to compete for Andorra at the 2026 Winter Paralympics, taking place from 6 to 15 March. The 28-year-old para-alpine skier will enter his third Games—following Pyeongchang and Beijing—in his strongest career form, marked by a fifth-place finish in the World Cup downhill standings and eighth overall, underpinned by consistent performances.

Puig, who will race in all five disciplines with a focus on speed events where he excelled this season, arrives feeling motivated, mature and serene. "I'm very motivated, more mature and aware that the Games always bring added pressure," he said during a presentation at Andbank's headquarters. He emphasised approaching the competition calmly as "just another race," prioritising strong skiing, full effort and enjoyment over specific targets to sidestep extra expectations. "I arrive with the work done and good results, which brings tranquillity," Puig added, noting his emotional high ahead of his wedding shortly after the event. A strong outcome, he said, would serve as "a great gift" for himself, his partner and the country. He described the Cortina course as fast at the start, then highly technical with narrow turns and jumps.

State Secretary for Sport and Youth Alain Cabanes praised Puig's steady progress and confirmed he will travel to Italy for on-site support. Cabanes announced key progress toward launching the Andorran Paralympic Committee by September, transitioning from the current role of the Andorran Adapted Sports Federation (FADEA) while preserving its foundational backing. The move aims to integrate adapted sports into clubs and federations, mirroring the high-performance pyramid with technician programs and scholarships.

Culture, Youth and Sport Minister Mònica Bonell commended Puig's years of sacrifice and family backing, expressing full confidence. "We're very proud—now go enjoy it and show your level, no pressure," she said. Andbank country director Maria Suárez called Puig a role model of discipline and passion.