China aims to further promote grassroots sports participation among people with disabilities alongside the development of elite-level disability sport, following a record-breaking performance at the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Paralympic Games, authorities said recently.

At the Winter Paralympics that concluded on March 15 in Italy, China recorded its best showing at an overseas edition of the Games, topping the medal tally with 15 gold, 13 silver, and 16 bronze medals.

During a meeting to review and celebrate the delegation's performance, authorities said Chinese athletes maintained their competitive edge in traditionally strong disciplines while registering steady improvement across the board.

The meeting was held by the China Disabled Persons' Federation in Beijing on Wednesday.

Authorities stressed the importance of developing both mass sports participation and competitive sports for people with disabilities in a balanced manner.

Efforts will be made to enhance the competitiveness of elite athletes through scientific training, the selection and nurturing of top athletes and coaches, and the scaling up of technology applications and overall support systems.

At the same time, officials underscored the need to encourage more people with disabilities to engage with their communities and take part in physical activities. More community fitness facilities tailored to their needs, along with accessible fitness programs and a variety of sporting events, will be provided to facilitate their integration into society.

Shen Yifeng, a member of China's para ice hockey team that won a bronze medal at the 2026 Winter Paralympics, said that since he took up the sport a decade ago, a number of his friends with physical disabilities have been inspired by him to participate in sports activities.

"I am happy that our actions can serve as motivation for people like us to get involved in sports," he said.

Wang Nasi contributed to this story.