The Paris Paralympics concluded on Sunday with an exuberant, music-filled celebration, marking the end of a remarkable “historic summer,” according to Tony Estanguet, chief organiser of Paris 2024. The closing ceremony featured the extinguishing of the Paralympic flame and an electrifying concert at Stade de France, where more than 4,400 athletes from 168 delegations celebrated despite the rain.
Estanguet, a former Olympic gold medalist, reflected on the significance of the summer, noting it would remain “etched in people’s memories.” He emphasized how France, despite recent political divisions, came together in a spirit of unity and joy during the Games.
The official handover ceremony saw Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo pass the Paralympic flag to International Paralympic Committee President Andrew Parsons, who then handed it over to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. Broadway star Ali Stroker performed the American national anthem, followed by a dynamic film showcasing Californian beach scenes and athletic performances.
Despite early concerns about ticket sales, the Paralympics were a success, with stadiums largely full, benefiting from the positive momentum of the preceding Olympics. Parsons praised the Paris Paralympics for setting new standards in sports, organization, and gender parity.
The hour-long electronic concert, featuring French artists like Jean-Michel Jarre, Cassius, Busy P, and Kungs, was a highlight of the closing ceremony. DJ Martin Solveig wrapped up the show with his hit “Hello” and Daft Punk’s “One More Time,” adding a final celebratory touch.
China topped the medal table, continuing its dominance since the 2004 Athens Paralympics with 94 gold medals. Britain followed with 49 golds, and the USA secured 36. Ukraine, despite the ongoing conflict with Russia, achieved a commendable seventh place with 22 golds, while host nation France finished eighth with 19.
On the final day of competition, Switzerland claimed both Paralympic wheelchair marathon titles, with Catherine Debrunner winning the women’s race and Marcel Hug dominating the men’s event. The Netherlands also retained the women’s wheelchair basketball title with a decisive 63-49 victory over the USA.
The American women’s team will have to wait until the 2028 Los Angeles Games to challenge for the title, while the men’s team celebrated their third consecutive victory. The Paris Paralympics have set a high bar for future events, showcasing the incredible achievements of athletes and the power of global unity through sports.