After 11 days of action, the Paris Paralympics have come to a close in the French capital. More than 500 gold medals have been won, with organizers saying the athletes have helped change the way people view sport and disability.

Paris

The Paris Paralympics have concluded with a dazzling light show and a vibrant dance party. Over the course of the games, more than 500 gold medals were awarded to athletes in various disciplines. Organizers noted that the athletes' performances have contributed significantly to changing public perceptions of sports and disability.

The event saw significant engagement, with 2.5 million tickets sold, 90% of which were purchased by French spectators. The competition featured participation from over 4,000 athletes representing 168 delegations. The Paralympics, which began in Rome in 1960 with just 400 competitors, have grown into a global event promoting inclusivity and reshaping attitudes towards disability.

The closing ceremony, despite some rain, was a jubilant celebration attended by performers and athletes. As the event successfully wrapped up, attention shifts to Los Angeles, the host of the 2028 Paralympics, which aims to produce an equally impressive spectacle with hopes of favorable weather and a touch of Hollywood glamor.

The broader impact of the Paralympics has been highlighted, noting the event’s role in transforming views on what athletes with disabilities can achieve. Organizers and observers alike call for continued progress toward inclusivity in sports and beyond.



Paris Paralympics end with spectacular light show, dance party

A big send-off for one of the world's largest sporting spectacles. The Paris Games have been a huge hit in the host country, 2.5 million tickets were sold, with more than 90% bought by French people. Over 4,000 athletes have taken part. The Paralympics officially began in Rome in 1960 with just 400 competitors. It's evolved into an event that's helping to change lives and opinions around the world. Every time you competed, more people joined the party. Every time you succeeded, the intensity grew. With every wow, every cry, every heart you sent racing, you changed how people see sports and how they see disability. Thanks to you, everyone has seen what an inclusive world looks like. Attitudes must lead to change views. Words of praise must be replaced by words of conviction. Obstacles must become opportunities. 168 Paralympic delegations were represented at the closing ceremony, where performers and athletes did their best to enjoy the party despite some late summer rain. 2028 hosts Los Angeles are hoping a sprinkle of sunshine and a dash of Hollywood can help them compete with the show Paris has produced. I'm focused on delivering the best games ever. It'll be the biggest Olympics ever. We'll have around 11,000, 12,000 athletes on the field of play and Paralympic athletes on the field of play. We'll be the largest peacetime gathering of people around the world. The Paralympics has become a showcase for elite sport and inclusivity, an event where what is rather than isn't possible can be celebrated. Andy Richardson, Al Jazeera.

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