The 2024 Paris Paralympics are set to kick off following the conclusion of the Olympic Games, bringing together over 4,000 athletes from more than 150 nations to compete across 22 sports. This marks the first time that France is hosting a summer Paralympics, with previous experience hosting the 1992 Winter Games in Tignes and Albertville. The prestigious event will utilize many of the same venues that were used during the Olympics, such as Roland Garros, the Château de Versailles gardens, and the Stade de France.
When do the Paralympics start?
The opening ceremony of the Paralympics is scheduled for Wednesday, August 28, with the first day of competition commencing on Thursday, August 29. The Paralympics will run until Sunday, September 8, which is also the day of the closing ceremony. Each day will have events starting early in the morning and continuing throughout the day, similar to the schedule of the Olympics.
How to get Paralympics tickets?
Tickets for the Paralympics are still available through the official website, offering various options for spectators. Day-long Discovery Passes are priced at €24 (£20.50), allowing access to multiple sessions in a day. Additionally, there is a special offer where two children’s tickets can be purchased for just €10 for every two adult tickets bought. For those seeking a more luxurious experience, hospitality sections with more expensive seats are also available.
Paralympics opening and closing ceremonies
As with the Olympic Games, the opening ceremony of the Paralympics will not take place in a traditional stadium setting. Instead, it will encompass iconic landmarks in Paris, including the Eiffel Tower, Place de la Concorde, and the Trocadéro. Thomas Jolly, the artistic director for the ceremonies, promises a monumental and popular concept that will transform the heart of Paris with unique performances showcasing the spirit of the Paralympic Games.
Channel 4 has exclusive live television coverage of the Paralympics in the UK, with over 1,300 hours of scheduled coverage. Viewers can also watch online via Channel 4’s streaming service or on their YouTube channel. The BBC will provide evening highlights dedicated to the Paralympics on most nights.
The Paralympics feature a total of 22 sports, with 549 gold medals up for grabs. In the previous edition in Tokyo, ParalympicsGB finished second in the medal table behind China. The sports included are diverse, ranging from blind football and goalball to wheelchair basketball and sitting volleyball.
ParalympicsGB stars to look out for
ParalympicsGB will be represented by around 220 athletes in Paris, with notable names 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 are expected to make a significant impact and showcase the talent and dedication of Paralympic athletes.
In conclusion, the 2024 Paris Paralympics promise to be a thrilling and inspiring event, bringing together athletes from around the world to compete in various sports. With the support of spectators and the coverage provided by broadcasters, the Paralympics are set to captivate audiences and celebrate the remarkable achievements of para athletes.