The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games opened with a grand ceremony welcoming delegations from all over the world. Brazil’s huge delegation, led by star Petrúcio Ferreira, made a grand entrance, while Belarus and Russia were banned due to the ongoing war in Ukraine. Some Belarusian and Russian athletes will compete as neutrals. ParalympicsGB’s chef de mission highlighted the need for social change after Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson’s train ordeal.
Afghanistan led the parade, followed by various delegations, with France expected to come last as the hosts. The opening ceremony featured performances by Christine and the Queens and a fly-past by the Tricolor. The French Paralympian Ryadh Sallem’s inspiring story was highlighted, showcasing the transformative power of sports for disabled individuals.
The Paralympics will feature 4,400 athletes from 182 delegations competing in 22 sports over the next 11 days. The competition will be held at various venues across Paris, with the opening ceremony taking place at the Place de la Concorde. The Paralympics promise incredible sport and inspiring human stories of resilience amid adversity.
The Paralympics will aim to engage new fans and highlight the inclusion of disabled individuals in sports and society. The event is expected to break records with the highest number of delegations and female athletes. The Paris 2024 president, Tony Estanguet, expressed hopes for the Paralympics to create a fervor similar to the Olympics and promote inclusivity and accessibility for disabled individuals in society.
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