Paris Paralympics Boasts Record Number of LGBTQ Athletes

The Paris Summer Paralympic Games are witnessing a record number of self-identified LGBTQ athletes participating in the competition, marking a significant milestone in the history of the Games.

Approximately 4,400 athletes from around the world are competing across 22 sports in the Paralympic Games, which runs from 28 August to 8 September.

Among them, 41 publicly out LGBTQ individuals from 14 countries are proudly representing their communities on this global stage, according to Outsports.

This figure surpasses the 36 out Paralympians who competed in Tokyo in 2021 and the 12 in Rio in 2016, reflecting a steady increase in visibility and representation within the Paralympic community. The 2024 list may continue to grow as more LGBTQ athletes are recognised or choose to come out during the Games.

“The increased representation of LGBTQ athletes with disabilities in the Paralympic Games highlights substantial progress towards inclusivity and acceptance within the sports community,” Outsports commented on the growing numbers.

Outsports, a website dedicated to covering LGBTQ athletes, compiles its list using journalistic sources, reader input, and athletes’ social media profiles. To ensure accuracy and respect for privacy, the site reaches out to individuals for confirmation when there is uncertainty, avoiding the inadvertent “outing” of anyone.

Brazil leads the way with eight LGBTQ Paralympians, followed by Great Britain with seven and the USA with six. Notably, there are currently no representatives from Africa on the list.

The recent Olympic Games also made headlines with a record 199 out athletes, the highest number ever recorded at the event. However, this achievement was marred by a conservative backlash against visible LGBTQ representation during the opening ceremony and in the carrying of the Olympic torch.

The increasing visibility of LGBTQ athletes at both the Paralympic and Olympic Games is a testament to the ongoing efforts towards equality and acceptance in sports, despite the challenges that remain. As the Paris Paralympics continue, the spotlight on these athletes serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of diversity and inclusion in all areas of life, including on the world’s biggest sporting stages.