A Conversation on the Future of the Paralympics with IPC President Andrew Parsons

(May Zhao Exclusive Interview)At the lighting of the sacred flame in Stoke Mandeville, as the torch flame was collected, we interviewed International Paralympic Committee President Andrew Parsons. That day, the entire Paralympic movement was filled with hope and passion. The following is the interview:

May Zhao: If you had to describe this torch relay in one word, what would it be? Why?

Andrew Parsons: I would say — “Joy.”

Because every time we return to Stoke Mandeville, it is a moment of joy. It reminds us where the Paralympic Movement came from and why it exists. As we move toward the Games in Milan, the scale will grow, the attention will be higher, and the audiences will be larger.

But coming back here is always uplifting, because it keeps us clearly aware of the origins of the Paralympic Movement.

May Zhao: If you could push for one change globally for the Paralympic Movement — and only one — what would you hope for most?

Andrew Parsons: I think, without a doubt, it is for the world to truly understand the message the Paralympic Movement delivers — the message of inclusion. That is, when we provide the right conditions and improve accessibility for everyone, Paralympic athletes can not only inspire the world but also drive change across all sectors of society. We hope this change can be reflected in every corner of society.

May Zhao: What are your expectations for this edition of the Winter Paralympic Games?

Andrew Parsons: We hope to see the greatest Paralympic Games in history. We expect to see full stands, with spectators filling venues and providing the best possible platform for Paralympic athletes to shine on the global stage — that is our dream.

We have already seen this atmosphere during the Olympic Winter Games. I fully believe the Paralympic Games will be just as outstanding, if not even better. And many of the scenes here are truly stunning and beautiful. Through online media and television broadcasts, the world will see what could be the most beautiful Paralympic Games ever.

May Zhao: Where is the current ceiling for the Paralympic Movement? And what are the IPC’s next goals?

Andrew Parsons: Honestly, we are constantly breaking through the ceiling and striving to create a more inclusive world through the Paralympic Movement. I believe the next important direction is to further expand the impact of the Winter Paralympic Games.

Regarding the Summer Paralympics, we have already achieved very strong global impact metrics. But there is still room for growth for the Winter Paralympics. I believe that, starting from Milan, we will embark on a new journey.