The 2024 Paralympic Games mark a significant milestone as the first summer Paralympic Games to be hosted in France. Running from August 28 to September 8, these games will be a celebration of athleticism, resilience, and the spirit of competition. For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, spectators are allowed to fill the stands, bringing back the electric atmosphere that only live audiences can provide.
Record-Breaking Participation and Diversity
This year’s Paralympic Games boast an all-time high number of delegations and female athletes. The International Paralympic Committee has confirmed that approximately 4,400 athletes from 168 delegations will participate, including 167 National Paralympic Committees and an eight-member Refugee Paralympic Team. Notably, this will be the first time that Eritrea, Kiribati, and Kosovo have representation at the Paralympics.
In addition to the large number of countries, there is also a significant contingent of neutral athletes. Following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, athletes from Russia and Belarus will compete as neutrals, with 88 athletes from Russia and eight from Belarus participating.
Highlighting Gender Equality
The 2024 Paralympic Games are setting new standards for gender equality. A record-breaking 1,983 female athletes will compete in Paris, with more medal events for women than ever before — 235 in total. While the Paris Olympics have been hailed as “gender equal,” the Paralympics are following suit with more opportunities for women to shine on the global stage.
Exciting Competitions and Unique Sports
Over the course of 12 action-packed days, para athletes will compete in 549 medal events across 22 sports. From team sports like wheelchair basketball and rugby to individual events like para swimming and athletics, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Two sports unique to the Paralympics are goalball and boccia, both of which don’t have Olympic equivalents. Goalball is a visually impaired sport where athletes rely on sound to track the ball, while boccia is a precision ball sport designed for athletes with severe physical disabilities.
For those interested in sports like para athletics, para triathlon, and para cycling, you’ll see visually impaired athletes competing alongside sighted guides or pilots. Since 2012, these guides have been awarded medals too, recognizing their crucial role in the competition.
Athletes to Watch at the 2024 Paralympic Games
As the games unfold, several storylines and athletes are expected to dominate the headlines. China, which has been the top performer in the last five Paralympic Games, is looking to extend its winning streak. On the other hand, the U.S. is sending a strong contingent of 225 athletes, with an equal number of men and women. Here are some athletes to keep an eye on:
- Oksana Masters (Para Cycling and Para Nordic Skiing) and Aaron Pike (Para Track and Field and Para Nordic Skiing) are multi-season athletes who recently competed in the 2022 Beijing Winter Games. Masters is the most decorated U.S. winter Paralympian of all time.
- Jessica Long, the second-most decorated U.S. Paralympian with 29 medals (including 16 gold), is back for her sixth Paralympics.
- Nick Mayhugh, who set a world record in Tokyo, is aiming for another gold in Paris and will also compete in the long jump.
- Sarah Adam is making history as the first woman to represent Team USA in wheelchair rugby at a Paralympic Games.
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Additionally, an Italian sprinter is set to become the first transgender woman to compete at a Paralympics, adding to the rich diversity and inclusivity of this event.
Record Coverage and Media Attention
Traditionally, the Paralympics have garnered less attention than the Olympics, but that narrative is changing. Paris 2024 will be the first Paralympic Games to offer live coverage for all 22 sports. A record number of broadcasters, covering more than 160 countries and territories, are set to bring the action to a global audience.
NBC, for example, is providing unprecedented coverage of the Paralympics. With 1,500 hours of live streaming on Peacock and extensive programming on USA Network, viewers won’t miss a moment. From daily highlights to in-depth recaps, NBC’s coverage ensures that these inspiring athletes will get the recognition they deserve.
The Spectacular Opening and Closing Ceremonies
The 2024 Paralympic Games will kick off with a groundbreaking opening ceremony, held outside a stadium for the first time in Paralympic history. Directed by Thomas Jolly, the ceremony will feature a parade along the river Seine, starting from the Champs-Elysees and ending at the Place de la Concorde. This innovative approach is expected to captivate audiences around the world, setting the tone for the rest of the games.
The closing ceremony, scheduled for September 8, will bring the games to a spectacular finish, celebrating the achievements of the athletes and the spirit of the Paralympics.
Get Ready to Watch the 2024 Paralympic Games
The Paralympics are more than just a sporting event; they’re a testament to the human spirit, showcasing determination, courage, and the pursuit of excellence. Whether you’re tuning in for the first time or are a longtime fan, the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris are set to inspire and entertain. With live coverage, record-breaking participation, and incredible athletes, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
Be sure to catch all the action on Peacock, NBC, and other platforms as these extraordinary athletes compete for gold.
For a complete competition schedule, you can visit the official Paralympics website. Don’t miss out on the stories of triumph and perseverance that will unfold over the next 12 days.