World Para Athletics: A Major Boost for India's Para Sports

New Delhi, Sep 18 (PTI) - The World Para Athletics Championships are set to take place in India for the first time, and World Para Athletics chief Paul Fitzgerald believes this event will significantly bolster the ecosystem for athletes with disabilities in the country. Additionally, it is seen as a crucial step towards the 2026 Paralympics.

Fitzgerald, whose parents hail from Australia instilling in him a love for cricket, suggested that cricket could potentially become a part of the Paralympic curriculum if supported by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC).

"Over a hundred nations are coming to New Delhi for the World Para Athletics, beginning September 27. It's a tremendous achievement for these athletes to make it to a world championship, especially following the Paralympic Games in Paris last year," stated Fitzgerald at the medal unveiling ceremony on Thursday.

"This event is an opportunity to maintain the momentum from the last Paralympics. We're already gearing up for another Paralympic Games in three years, and this marks the start of that journey. It's the first major para sport event, the largest single para sport event globally taking place post the Paris Games," he expressed.

With India's considerable investment in sports, Fitzgerald is optimistic about the country's "upward trajectory" in para sports disciplines.

"Considering the trajectory of Indian athletes and the investments from the government, PCI (Paralympic Committee of India), and others involved, we foresee remarkable outcomes," he remarked.

Regarding cricket's inclusion in the Paralympic curriculum, especially since it's added to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics program, Fitzgerald noted, "There's a possibility, provided an ecosystem is in place."

He highlighted, "An event like the World Para Athletics Championships can elevate the entire Paralympic ecosystem. Being familiar with cricket due to my Australian roots, I recognize its significance in India. The sporting ecosystem needs nurturing because as they say, a rising tide lifts all boats."

Fitzgerald elaborated, "Success here offers opportunities from government funding to commercial sponsors, enabling community involvement in supporting individuals with disabilities to engage in sports. This could inspire athletes across Australia, England, and the West Indies, culminating in the inclusion of cricket in LA 2028."

As many as 2,200 para athletes from 104 countries will take part in the World Para Athletics Championships.

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