As the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games draw to a close, athletes from around the world continue to showcase extraordinary performances and break records. Brazil has emerged as a standout nation, setting a new national record with an impressive haul of 86 medals, including 23 gold, 25 silver, and 38 bronze. This surpasses their previous best of 72 medals won in Tokyo, marking their most successful Paralympic campaign to date.In a historic moment for French parasports, the national cécifoot (football for the blind) team clinched their first-ever gold medal, defeating Argentina in a thrilling penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in regular time. Led by star player Frédéric Villeroux, who scored the opening goal, France became only the second country to win gold in this discipline since its introduction to the Paralympic program in 2004.Italy has also had a record-breaking performance, securing 71 medals, including 24 gold, surpassing their previous best of 69 medals in Tokyo. The Italian team’s success was highlighted by victories in athletics, swimming, and cycling events.Individual athletes have shone brightly as well. Ecuador’s Kiara Rodríguez, 21, made history by winning two gold medals in the long jump event, setting a new Paralympic record. Brazil’s Mariana D’Andrea successfully defended her weightlifting title in the 73 kg category, setting a new Paralympic record with a lift of 148 kg. Mexico’s Ángel Camacho, 19, secured his third medal of the Games with a silver in the 50m freestyle swimming event.As the Games conclude, they continue to inspire with stories of perseverance and athletic excellence, showcasing the extraordinary capabilities of para-athletes from around the world. The final medal table sees China leading with 94 gold medals, followed by Great Britain and the United States.
Key points
- Brazil sets new national record with 86 medals at the Paris 2024 Paralympics.
- France wins its first-ever gold in cécifoot, defeating Argentina in a penalty shootout.
- Italy breaks its previous record with 71 medals, including 24 gold.
- Individual athletes like Kiara Rodríguez, Mariana D’Andrea, and Ángel Camacho achieve significant personal milestones.
