Los Angeles will host its first Paralympic Games on August 15-27, 2028, following the LA28 Olympic Games, set to run July 14-30, 2028. While we’ll have to wait several more years for this event, sports fans will be pleased to know that the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Governing Board has already approved which adaptive sports will be included in the LA28 Paralympic Games.
LA28 Paralympic Games to feature these adaptive sports:
The LA28 Games will be Los Angeles’ first time hosting the Paralympic Games and third time hosting the Olympic Games (previously in 1984 and 1932). Up until 1988, the Paralympics were held at a different location than the Olympic Games. An estimated 15,000 athletes and para-athletes are expected to compete in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.
Could the Paralympic Games Alter this List?
In accordance with the IPC Handbook, an Organizing Committee of a respective Games may also propose to the IPC one or more additional events in new sports, with consideration for inclusion at the absolute discretion of the IPC Governing Board.
As part of the International Federation application process, a record 33 Para sports submitted applications to the IPC to be considered for inclusion in the LA28 Paralympic Games. Following the full evaluation, the IPC granted LA28 the opportunity to explore the potential of including Para climbing or Para surfing, sports that have not been featured before at the Paralympic Games. Should LA28 put forward any sports for consideration, a final decision will be taken by the IPC Governing Board by the end of 2023.
“Determining these sports for inclusion to the LA28 Paralympic Games through the International Federation application process was a tremendously difficult job for the IPC Governing Board as we received 33 excellent applications. All International Federations who submitted applications should be congratulated on the quality of their submissions as they underline that all Para sports are getting stronger,” Andrew Parsons, the IPC President, said. “The sports we have included in the LA28 Paralympic Games provide a competitive and attractive sport program that will showcase the diversity of the Paralympic Movement.”
Casey Wasserman, LA28’s Chairperson, said: “The LA28 Paralympic Games will be an incredible moment for elite adaptive sport against the backdrop of one of the most diverse and inclusive cities on the planet. We’re looking forward to bringing a remarkable Paralympic sport program to life that will create an exceptional Games experience for athletes and fans. LA28 has always been about integrating the creative energy of LA into sport tradition to bring new fans into the Olympic and Paralympic Movement. As we explore potential new sports, we will consider how best to elevate the athlete and fan experience and contribute to the overall success of the Games.”
Following submission of applications by International Federations in July 2022, the IPC assessed each candidate sport in accordance with the IPC Handbook and sought further clarification from applicants where needed. The IPC also worked closely with LA28 to analyze the potential impact of sports on the program, prioritizing an amazing Games experience that is fiscally and environmentally responsible.
Which Paralympic sport are you most excited about?