Paris Prepares for Paralympic Games: What to Know About the 2024 Spectacle
The Paralympic flame has arrived in Paris, and the city is abuzz with excitement as the final preparations for the 2024 Paralympic Games take shape. Just over two weeks after the conclusion of the Olympic Games, France will host the Summer Paralympic Games for the very first time. The event will take place at several venues that saw Olympic action, with others cleverly adapted for the Paralympics. For instance, the Eiffel Tower Stadium, which hosted beach volleyball during the Olympics, has been transformed into a dedicated venue for blind football.
Hereâs a comprehensive guide to the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games, providing everything you need to know:
When Do the Games Begin?
The 2024 Paris Paralympics are set to commence on Wednesday, 28th August with a grand opening ceremony, and will continue until Sunday, 8th September.
The Opening Ceremony: A First for the Paralympics
The opening ceremony will be a spectacle unlike any other in Paralympic history. It will take place along the iconic Avenue des Champs-Ãlysées, culminating at the Place de la Concorde. Paralympic athletes will proudly parade along the route, marking a departure from traditional stadium-based opening ceremonies.
What to Expect: A Celebration of Athletic Excellence
The games will feature approximately 4,400 athletes from around the world, competing in a total of 549 medal events across 22 different sports. Many of the venues used during the Olympic Games will once again host Paralympic events. For example, wheelchair basketball will be held at the Bercy Arena, the site of the Olympic basketball competitions.
Medal Moments: A Tribute to Achievement
The medals awarded at the Paris Paralympics mirror the design of those presented at the Olympics, featuring a piece of original iron from the Eiffel Tower. However, they are specially designed for accessibility, featuring distinctive tactile elements, engravings, and braille for the visually impaired.
A City Embracing Accessibility
Hosting the Paralympics has spurred positive changes in accessibility across Paris. The city has actively implemented modifications to improve the accessibility of its public transport system, making it easier for individuals with disabilities to navigate the city.
Sports on Show: A Diverse Showcase of Ability
The 2024 Paris Paralympics will showcase a wide range of sporting disciplines, including:
Para Archery
Para Athletics
Para Badminton
Blind Football (soccer)
Boccia
Para Canoe
Para Cycling
Para Equestrian
Goalball
Para Judo
Para Powerlifting
Para Rowing
Shooting Para Sport
Sitting Volleyball
Para Swimming
Para Table Tennis
Para Taekwondo
Para Triathlon
Wheelchair Basketball
Wheelchair Fencing
Wheelchair Rugby
Wheelchair Tennis
How to Catch the Action: Broadcasting and Streaming Options
The 2024 Paris Paralympics will be broadcast across the NBC family of networks, with many events airing on USA Network and CNBC. Viewers can also stream the games on Peacock, NBCOlympics.com, the official Paralympic YouTube channel, and the International Paralympic Committee website.
The 2024 Paris Paralympics promise to be a truly inspirational event, showcasing the incredible athleticism and determination of Paralympic athletes. This global celebration of ability will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy, inspiring generations to come.
