The 16th edition of the Paralympic Games is set to take place in Paris following the conclusion of the Olympic Games. This year, more than 4,000 athletes from over 150 nations will come together to compete in 22 different sports. It marks the first time that France will host a summer Paralympics, with previous experience hosting the 1992 Winter Games in Tignes and Albertville. Many of the iconic Olympic venues, such as Roland Garros, the Château de Versailles gardens, and the Stade de France, will once again be used for the Paralympic events.
Paralympics Schedule and Key Dates
The opening ceremony of the summer Paralympics is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, August 28, with the first day of competition kicking off on Thursday, August 29. The final day of competition and the closing ceremony will be held on Sunday, September 8. Similar to the schedule of the Olympics, events will take place throughout the day with early starts to accommodate the various sports and athletes.
How to Get Paralympics Tickets
For those looking to attend the Paralympic Games, tickets are still available through the official website. Prices for the tickets range from day-long Discovery Passes for €24 (£20.50) to more expensive seats in the hospitality sections. Additionally, there is an offer where you can purchase two children’s tickets for €10 for every two adult tickets bought, making it a family-friendly option. By visiting the official website, you can access the full range of ticket options and secure your spot at this prestigious event.
Paralympics Opening and Closing Ceremonies
Similar to the Olympics, the opening ceremony for the Paralympics will not be confined to a single stadium but will take place at several iconic landmarks across Paris. The ceremony will incorporate famous sites such as the Eiffel Tower, Place de la Concorde, and the Trocadéro, providing a unique and visually stunning experience for spectators. The artistic director for the ceremonies, Thomas Jolly, expressed his excitement for creating a spectacle that showcases the Paralympic athletes and the values they embody. The ceremonies aim to unite audiences worldwide around the spirit of the Paralympic Games.
Channel 4 in the UK has exclusive live television coverage of the Paralympics, with over 1,300 hours of scheduled programming. Viewers can also watch the events online through Channel 4’s streaming service or on their YouTube channel. BBC will offer evening highlights shows dedicated to the Paralympics, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the games and the athletes.
Paralympic Sports and Athletes to Watch
The Paralympics feature a total of 22 sports, with 549 gold medals up for grabs across various disciplines. At the last Paralympic Games in Tokyo, ParalympicsGB finished second in the medal table behind China, showcasing the talent and dedication of British athletes. From blind football to wheelchair tennis, the range of sports offers something for everyone to enjoy and support.
ParalympicsGB will be represented by around 220 Paralympians in Paris, with notable athletes to watch including Hollie Arnold in para athletics, Matt Bush in taekwondo, Rachel Choong in badminton, Hannah Cockroft in para athletics, Funmi Oduwaiye in para athletics, David Smith in boccia, Claire Taggart in boccia, Iona Winnifrith in swimming, and Thomas Young in para athletics. These athletes have shown exceptional skill and determination in their respective sports and will be looking to make their mark on the international stage.
In conclusion, the Paris Paralympics 2024 promise to be a memorable and inspiring event, showcasing the incredible abilities of Paralympic athletes from around the world. With a diverse range of sports, talented athletes to watch, and unique ceremonies planned, the Paralympic Games are set to captivate audiences and celebrate the power of sport to unite and inspire.
