Paris 2024 Paralympic Games: What to Expect and How to Tune In
The vibrant city of Paris is set to host its first-ever Paralympic Games, kicking off with a spectacular Opening Ceremony on Wednesday, August 28th, 2024. This historic event will unfold at the iconic Place de la Concorde and down the Champs-Elysées, welcoming 4,400 athletes from 184 nations.
At 8:00 PM local time, the streets of Paris will come alive with a grand parade, led by Artistic Director Thomas Jolly, showcasing the resilience, spirit, and inspiring stories of Paralympic athletes. This unique ceremony, set against the picturesque backdrop of Paris, promises to deliver breathtaking performances that connect spectators worldwide, celebrating the essence of the Paralympic Games.
Jitske Visser, a Paralympic wheelchair basketball medalist and President of the IPC Athletes’ Commission, expressed her excitement, highlighting the significance of the athletes being part of such a monumental event in one of the world’s most famous avenues. Tony Estanguet, President of Paris 2024, emphasized how this ceremony symbolizes a powerful message of inclusion for people with disabilities.
Key Highlights of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony:
4,400 athletes representing 184 delegations
An audience of 65,000 spectators
Over 300 million viewers worldwide
A majestic parade down the Champs-Elysées leading to Place de La Concorde
Four stages featuring exclusive artistic performances
Spotlight on the First Two Days of Competition
As the Games begin on August 29th, fans can look forward to intense action across multiple sports, including Para Cycling Track, Para Swimming, Para Table Tennis, and Para Taekwondo.
On the opening day, all eyes will be on Sarah Storey, ParalympicsGB’s most decorated athlete, as she embarks on her ninth consecutive Games. Storey, who claimed three titles at Tokyo 2020, aims to add to her 17 gold medals in the Para Cycling Track Time Trial C5, starting at 11:00 AM local time.
Wheelchair rugby also kicks off with a thrilling match between Australia and Great Britain at 10:30 AM, featuring star player Ryley Batt, who is eager to reclaim the top spot after a fourth-place finish at Tokyo 2020.
Day two, August 30th, sees the introduction of Para Athletics and Shooting Para Sport. French shooting sensation Tanguy de la Forest will compete in the R4 mixed 10m air rifle standing SH2, while India’s Avani Lekhara will defend her title in the 10m air rifle SH1 event.
How to Watch
Catch all the excitement of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games on the Paralympic YouTube Channel or the International Paralympic Committee website. Note that geo-blocking policies may apply, so check your local listings.
Prepare to be inspired by the unparalleled talent, dedication, and spirit of the athletes as Paris 2024 promises to be an unforgettable celebration of human achievement.