What's happened
International Paralympic Committee President Andrew Parsons visited Brisbane, the host city for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and the legacy of the Sydney 2000 Games. Brisbane aims to set new standards in venue design and inclusivity as it prepares for the upcoming events.
What's behind the headline?
Key Insights
- Legacy of Sydney 2000: Andrew Parsons highlighted the impact of the Sydney 2000 Paralympics, which set a precedent for ticket sales and global interest in the Games. Brisbane aims to replicate this success by enhancing accessibility and inclusivity.
- Accessibility Standards: Brisbane organizers, led by Andrew Liveris, are committed to making accessibility a standard in venue design. This includes integrating First Nations culture and environmental considerations into planning.
- Future Expectations: With venue construction expected to start in 2026, there is ample time for Brisbane to ensure that the Games meet high standards of accessibility. Parsons noted that the goal is to achieve 100% accessibility, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity.
- Growing Popularity of Paralympics: The Paralympic Games have become the third largest sporting event globally, following the Olympics and FIFA World Cup. This growth is attributed to improved competition quality and athlete performances, indicating a bright future for the Games.
What the papers say
According to John Pye from The Independent, Parsons emphasized the significance of the Sydney 2000 Games in advancing the Paralympic movement, stating, "Without doubt, the year 2000 was a gamechanger." He noted that Brisbane has the opportunity to set new benchmarks for accessibility, a sentiment echoed by Andrew Liveris, who stated, "We will be, as an Olympic and Paralympic Games, the standard bearer." Meanwhile, AP News reported on the intense rivalry between Queensland and New South Wales, highlighting the cultural context of the upcoming Games. The focus on accessibility and inclusivity is a central theme in both articles, showcasing a commitment to improving the experience for all athletes and spectators.
How we got here
Brisbane was awarded the 2032 Games in 2021, but venue plans took over 1,340 days to finalize. The city aims to build on the legacy of the Sydney 2000 Games, which significantly advanced the Paralympic movement.
Go deeper
- What are the main goals for the Brisbane 2032 Games?
- How will accessibility be improved for the Paralympics?
- What lessons can Brisbane learn from Sydney 2000?
More on these topics
-
Australia, officially known as the Commonwealth of Australia, is a sovereign country comprising the mainland of the Australian continent, the island of Tasmania, and numerous smaller islands.
-
Andrew Parsons may refer to:
Andrew Parsons (American politician) (1817–1855), politician from the U.S. state of Michigan
Andrew Parsons (photographer) (born 1974), British photographer and political advisor
Andrew Parsons (Canadian politician) (born..