World Sailing has submitted a proposal calling for the return of para sailling to the Brisbane 2032 Paralympic Games.
The submission to the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), outlines a transformed global landscape for para sailing, driven by growth, strengthened governance, and a modern, flexible sporting programme aligned with IPC priorities.
World Sailing previously campaigned for inclusion in the 2022 games and says since this time, para sailing has undergone a period of significant expansion, strategic development and growth across all core areas.
Currently 39 nations across all five IPC regions compete in para sailing events – up from 28, with more events also being held – 57 events in 2022 and 111 in 2025.
Major competitions, including the America’s Cup, have recently made significant commitments to para and inclusive sailing.
David Graham
World Sailing also points out that athlete participation is up by more than 200%, with more than 400 para sailors competing regularly.
An inclusive development programme has supported 256 athletes and coaches from 40 nations since 2023 with female participation rising to 34%, creating a pathway to full gender equity.
In addition, in 2025, the new inaugural World Sailing Inclusion Championships was held.
“It is vital that we demonstrate how World Sailing has listened to and acted upon the IPC’s previous feedback, and this is what we have sought to do in our submission to the IPC,” said World Sailing president Quanhai Li.
Significant commitments
“The sport is now in its strongest position ever. More nations and more athletes are competing; our events calendar is the most extensive in our history; and our investment in development, accessibility, and inclusion continues to grow.”
World Sailing CEO David Graham added: “Para sailing is on an incredible upward trajectory. Major competitions, including the America’s Cup, have recently made significant commitments to para and inclusive sailing.
“They have done this because para sailing offers something truly unique: para athletes competing in the heart of nature on the ocean.
“Few sports provide such an inspirational backdrop which captures the essence of freedom, resilience, and performance.”
Para sailing last made an appearance at the Olympics at Rio in 2016.
