The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and World Para Sports have launched a call for partners interested in taking on the governance of Para athletics, Para swimming, or both. This initiative aims to establish independent bodies to manage these key disciplines within the Paralympic program.
The call for proposals is aimed at cities, national governments, sports organizations, and other entities wishing to collaborate in the transfer of governance. Interested parties must submit their Expression of Interest by June 27 by sending an email to WorldParaSports@paralympic.org.
A process initiated in 2021
The process of transferring governance of Para athletics and Para swimming began in 2021 with an initial call for proposals, followed by exclusive negotiations with the city of Manchester and UK Sport. Although talks with UK partners are continuing, they are no longer exclusive, opening the door to new proposals from other interested organizations.
Both sports are part of the World Para Sports group, which is currently under the governance of the IPC based in Bonn, Germany. The transfer seeks to ensure more specialized and independent management for these disciplines, which are fundamental pillars of the Paralympic movement.
The importance of Para athletics and Para swimming
Para athletics is the largest sport in terms of participation and medal events within the Paralympic program. Since its inclusion in the first Paralympic Games in Rome in 1960, it has been a central discipline. At the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, one in four athletes competed in Para athletics, highlighting its relevance and global reach.
Para swimming, like Para athletics, has been part of the Paralympic program since the first edition in Rome in 1960. It is the second largest sport at the Games, accounting for more than 25% of medal events and 13% of athletes competing in Paris 2024.
How to participate in the process
As mentioned above, organizations interested in assuming governance of these sports must submit their Expression of Interest by June 27. The process is designed to ensure a smooth and effective transition to independent management, allowing these sports to continue to grow and develop globally.
For more information, entities can contact World Para Sports via email at WorldParaSports@paralympic.org.
