Two years after the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, public interest in Paralympic sports remains strong, but concerns continue about how they are covered in the media and supported by institutions. A recent survey by Odoxa for Winamax and RTL found that 71 percent of French people believe Paralympic sports are not given enough media attention, a figure that has risen by 4 percentage points since last year. While 51 percent of respondents watch Paralympic events on television, only 17 percent do so outside of the Games period. Many people express frustration about the lack of information regarding when and where these sports are broadcast, with one student noting that more visibility could lead to greater viewership.
Despite these concerns, the survey also highlights a positive perception of Paralympic sports. Seventy-three percent of respondents consider them just as interesting as able-bodied competitions, and 85 percent believe they promote full societal participation for people with disabilities. Additionally, 86 percent of the French public think that televised coverage of Paralympic events can change societal views on disability. The emotional and educational impact of the Paris 2024 Games remains evident, with individuals like Alexandre, a 19-year-old student, expressing a newfound passion for Paralympic sports after participating in wheelchair basketball. Others, such as Ethan, a 20-year-old, recall the solidarity demonstrated in athletics with guides, a sentiment they feel is rare in able-bodied sports.
Public support for Paralympic sports is, however, hindered by both media and political factors. Sixty-eight percent of French people believe that Paralympic sports are not sufficiently supported by public authorities, a figure that has increased by 4 percentage points. This lack of support is reflected in the low participation rates among people with disabilities, with less than 2 percent of the 12 million French people living with a disability being members of a sports federation. This is partly due to the lack of infrastructure and the high cost of adapted equipment.
To ensure a lasting legacy, citizens have identified key priorities, including continuous media visibility (85 percent), increased awareness in schools and sports clubs (85 percent and 83 percent respectively), and funding for adapted equipment to reduce financial barriers (82 percent). The opportunity to create a sustainable legacy was missed following the Paris 2024 Games, raising questions about whether the next Games in Los Angeles 2028 will provide a second chance.
Public Disappointment Over Lack of Paralympic Media Coverage and Support in France
AI-rewritten from original reportingHow it works
paralympicsmedia-coveragedisabilitysports-supportpublic-opinion



