In 2026, efforts are underway to make sports more accessible to everyone, but financial challenges continue to hinder participation for para-athletes. Many people with disabilities face significant barriers due to the high cost of specialized equipment, which is essential for engaging in para-sports. These sports require custom-designed gear that meets strict technical standards, and the prices for such equipment are often far beyond what most families can afford. This can discourage individuals with disabilities from starting sports at a young age, despite their interest and ability. Para-sports equipment must be replaced regularly due to the wear and tear caused by intense training. The initial cost for an athlete can be as high as the price of a car or more. This includes not only the equipment itself but also maintenance, replacements, and other expenses like travel, accommodation, and mandatory medical assessments. For instance, a wheelchair used in rugby can cost up to 15,000 euros, while a basic multi-sport wheelchair, such as the Wallaby Orange from Decathlon, starts at 1,250 euros. However, for competitive use, prices rise sharply, with non-competitive wheelchairs ranging from 3,500 to 8,000 euros and high-performance models for sports like wheelchair basketball or rugby reaching 15,000 euros. These wheelchairs typically last only 3 to 4 years before needing replacement. Running blades for athletes with amputations can cost more than 4,500 euros for a basic model and over 25,000 euros for a professional-grade prosthetic. These are essential for participation in the sport and cannot be avoided. Even boccia, a Paralympic sport that gained attention after Aurélie Aubert's victory, is not immune to high costs, with a full set of certified balls and an international-standard launching ramp ranging from 2,600 to 5,000 euros. Some support mechanisms exist, such as the full reimbursement of sports wheelchairs announced in France from December 2025. However, these programs are limited and do not cover the more expensive competition models, which require complex administrative procedures. Delays in processing these reimbursements are common and can disrupt an athlete's preparation schedule. As a result, many young people and adults with disabilities give up on sports due to financial constraints rather than a lack of interest. According to the national barometer (Injep), nearly half of people with disabilities do not participate in physical or sports activities. This reinforces the idea that high-level sports are only accessible to those with financial means. Clubs in rural areas or regions with fewer resources struggle to keep up with these costs, leading to growing disparities in access between different regions.