Host nation for LA28 grapple with next year’s Paralympic Games hosts, France – WWR World Championship, Denmark 2022
WWR are proud to announce that following an extensive International Federation application and review process, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Governing Board has approved 22 sports for inclusion in the LA28 Paralympic Games, including Wheelchair Rugby. A total of 33 sports had applied to be part of the 2028 Games.
Richard Allcroft, WWR President said “whilst I was confident with the level of our application, I was aware there were many new sports seeking inclusion in LA 2028. We have a great sport, that I know will continue to attract spectators and broadcast attention.”
The other 21 sports that have been approved for inclusion are para-badminton, Boccia, blind football, goalball, para-judo, para-canoe, para-equestrian, para-table tennis, wheelchair tennis, wheelchair fencing, wheelchair basketball, para-archery, para-athletics, para powerlifting, sitting volleyball, para-swimming, para-rowing, shooting para-sport, para-taekwondo, para-triathlon and para-cycling.
Andrew Parsons, the IPC President, said: “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.
“The sports we have included in the LA28 Paralympic Games provide a competitive and attractive sport programme 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 sports programme 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 sports 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.”
Kathy Newman WWR Director of Competitions and Development, said: “The inclusion of Wheelchair Rugby in the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympic Games is a reflection of the growth of the organization globally. I am really proud of the commitment the members and leaders have in developing the sport from grassroots to the Paralympic stage. We are thrilled to be a part of LA28 and look forward to working closely with the IPC and OCOG to ensure a successful event.”
Tim Johnson WWR Head of Competitions, said: “I am very excited by the knowledge that we have been included in the sports programme for Los Angeles 2028. We were able to show case our sport during our recent World Championship in Denmark in 2022 and show via the live streaming and broadcast, how competitive our sport has become. Although 2028 may appear far into the future, we all know how quickly the event will become our major focus, and are very aware of the work that will soon need to be undertaken to ensure we maintain, or improve, the amazing spectacle our sport has become.”