The 2024 Paris Paralympic Games, set to begin on August 28, are poised to be the most inclusive and diverse in history. The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has announced a record participation of 168 delegations and approximately 4,400 athletes, surpassing the previous record set in Tokyo 2020. Notably, the games will feature an unprecedented 1,983 female athletes, comprising 45% of all participants – more than double the number that competed in Sydney 2000.The event has garnered significant local interest, with 92% of the over 1.75 million tickets sold coming from French buyers. Several sessions, including wheelchair fencing and para taekwondo at the Grand Palais, are nearly sold out. This enthusiasm reflects the growing recognition and support for Paralympic sports.National teams are gearing up for the competition with high hopes. Spain is sending a delegation of 150 athletes, including a record 54 women, aiming to surpass their 36-medal haul from Tokyo. The USA has named wheelchair basketball star Steve Serio and sitting volleyball player Nicky Nieves as their flag bearers. Meanwhile, the Refugee Paralympic Team (RPT) is set to make a strong impact, with athletes like Ibrahim Al Hussein and Zakia Khudadadi as medal hopefuls.The games will feature 22 sports, with the opening ceremony taking place at the Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Elysées. Choreographed by Alexander Ekman, the ceremony promises to be a spectacular show promoting inclusion and challenging prejudices. In a significant step towards equality, these games will be the first to offer equal prize money for Paralympic and Olympic athletes.As the Paralympics approach, athletes and organizers alike are emphasizing the importance of media coverage and public support in promoting Paralympic sports. Teresa Perales, a 27-time Paralympic medalist from Spain, noted that media coverage has increased ‘brutally’ in recent editions. The games are set to showcase not only athletic excellence but also the resilience and determination of athletes with disabilities from around the world.
Key points
- The 2024 Paris Paralympics will feature a record 168 delegations and 1,983 female athletes.
- 92% of over 1.
- The games will offer equal prize money for Paralympic and Olympic athletes for the first time.
- The opening ceremony, choreographed by Alexander Ekman, aims to promote inclusion and challenge prejudices.
75 million tickets have been sold to French buyers, indicating strong local support.
