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1 Feb

Could Surfing make it to the Paralympics in 2028?

by The Wave Team

The IPC (International Paralympic Committee) has confirmed 22 sports for the initial Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics programme, with surfing events still on the shortlist for additional inclusion.

It comes after a full-on application and review process, followed by approval from the IPC Governing Board.

A record number of applications were made for the 2028 programme, with 33 sports desperate for a spot at the Games.

The IPC granted LA28 the chance to add surfing to the Games, being most impressed by their bids.

If the LA28 Organising Committee choose to add surfing to the programme, a decision will be made by the end of 2023.

Surfing remains a distinct possibility after a successful Para Surfing World Championships in Pismo Beach in California in December. The event was incredible.

President Fernando Aguerre says the sport "belongs in the Paralympics".

Ben Powis CEO of Surfing England comments “
We’ve been delivering adaptive surfing events and supporting the legendary Team England Adaptive surfers for the last 5 years.  In that time we’ve seen adaptive surfing and it’s community of surfers and supporters flourish.  With a decision on Paralympic inclusion highly likely, we come to next major evolution in the journey and the perfect time for Sport England and UK Sport to take note and lend their support to this incredible sporting movement”

Nick Hounsfield, Chair of Surfing England and Founder of The Wave (Team England Adaptive training facility)  says “To inspire generations of athletes, supporters and show what is possible through determination, skill and grit is what the Parasurfing community is about, Having witnessed this over a number of years, know the characters involved and seen these athletes perform, I have no doubt that Parasurfing should be added to LA28!”

The Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games are scheduled to take place from August 15- 27th  2028.