Para ice hockey confirmed at French Alps 2030 Paralympic Winter Games

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) announced on Wednesday (2 October) the six sports approved for inclusion in the French Alps 20230 Paralympic Winter Games.

Para ice hockey has been confirmed as one of the six sports in the Games programme. It will be the 10th edition of the Winter Paralympics in which the sport will be part of since its debut at Lillehammer 1994 in Norway.

The programme was approved by the IPC Governing Board following an extensive review of applications from International Federations (IFs).

The other five sports approved for inclusion are Para alpine skiing (International Ski and Snowboard Federation), Para biathlon (International Biathlon Union), Para cross-country skiing (International Ski and Snowboard Federation), Para snowboard (International Ski and Snowboard Federation) and wheelchair curling (World Curling).

Andrew Parsons, IPC President, said: “We are extremely excited to confirm the six sports that will form the sport programme for the French Alps 2030 Paralympic Winter Games.

“As shown with previous editions of the Paralympic Winter Games, all six sports bring high-level competition representing the pinnacle of Para sport and strength in depth with regards to athlete talent which bodes really well for the future of the Paralympic Winter Games. We look forward to working with all of the International Federations as we build towards what will be fantastic Games in 2030.”

According to the IPC announcement, following submission of applications by International Federations in January 2024, the IPC assessed each candidate sport in accordance with the IPC Handbook and sought further clarification from applicants where needed. 

The sports, disciplines and medal events to be included on the Paralympic Games sport programme are determined by the IPC Governing Board, in its absolute discretion, following a review and recommendation from the IPC management team.

The French Alps 2030 will be the 15th edition of the Winter Paralympics and the 10th to take place in Europe. The United States are the most successful Para ice hockey team in the Games with five gold and one silver, followed by Canada with one gold, three silver and two bronze medals.