Is IPC Seeking Expressions of Interest for Para-athletics and Para-swimming Governance?
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Synopsis
The International Paralympic Committee and World Para Sports are inviting expressions of interest for potential partners to govern Para-athletics and Para-swimming. This strategic move allows IPC to focus on the Paralympic Games while ensuring a sustainable future for these vital sports. Learn how you can be part of this transformative initiative.
Key Takeaways
- IPC is inviting partners for governance of Para-athletics and Para-swimming.
- EOI is open to various entities, including governments and sports organizations.
- The governance transfer process began in 2021.
- Para-athletics is the largest Paralympic sport.
- Para-swimming accounts for over 25% of medal events.
Mumbai, June 6 (NationPress) The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) along with World Para Sports is on the lookout for partners keen on assuming the governance of Para-athletics, Para-swimming, or potentially both sports.
The IPC has been at the helm of various para sports, including athletics and swimming, for numerous years. However, in alignment with its vision plan, it has opted to transfer the governance of these sports to interested parties, thereby concentrating on the management of the Paralympic Games. As a part of this vision, the IPC has already passed the governance of shooting and badminton to the respective overall governing bodies.
In line with this initiative, they now seek to delegate the governance of para-athletics and para-swimming to capable entities.
The Expression of Interest (EOI) is now open to cities, national governments, sports organizations, and other stakeholders willing to facilitate the governance transfer and the establishment of independent entities for Para-athletics and Para-swimming, as stated by the IPC and World Para Sports on Friday.
The transfer process for para-athletics and para-swimming governance began in 2021, initiating a first phase of EOIs followed by exclusive discussions with the City of Manchester and UK Sport. While talks with UK partners are still ongoing, these negotiations are no longer exclusive, encouraging other interested organizations to present their proposals.
Para-athletics stands as the largest Paralympic sport based on both participation and medal events. It has been integrated into the Games since their inception in Rome in 1960. At the most recent Paralympic Games held in Paris, one in every four athletes was involved in para-athletics.
Similarly, para-swimming has been a foundational component of the Paralympic competition since its first edition in Rome. It represents the second-largest event at the Games, making up over 25% of the medal events and 13% of the athletes participating in the upcoming Paris 2024 Paralympics.
Both para-athletics and para-swimming are integral parts of World Para Sports, which encompasses various international para-sports governed by the IPC, currently headquartered in Bonn, Germany.
Point of View
The IPC is not only focusing on its core mission of managing the Paralympic Games but also ensuring that Para-athletics and Para-swimming are in capable hands. This step could lead to a more vibrant and sustainable future for these sports, aligning with the national interest in promoting inclusivity and excellence in athletics.
NationPress
07/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the EOI?
The Expression of Interest (EOI) is intended to invite cities, national governments, sports organizations, and other entities to take over the governance of Para-athletics and Para-swimming, allowing IPC to focus on the Paralympic Games.
Who can submit an EOI?
Cities, national governments, sports organizations, and any other entities interested in managing Para-athletics and Para-swimming can submit an EOI.
When did the transfer process begin?
The transfer process for governance of para-athletics and para-swimming started in 2021, with a first phase of EOIs followed by exclusive negotiations with the City of Manchester and UK Sport.
What is the significance of Para-athletics and Para-swimming?
Para-athletics is the largest Paralympic sport regarding participation, while para-swimming is the second-largest, both crucial for the overall success of the Paralympic Games.
What is the IPC's current focus?
The IPC is focusing on handing over governance of certain sports to interested parties so that it can concentrate on organizing the Paralympic Games.
