Powerlifting Paralympics 2024: Full Guide, Highlights & Key Athletes

The Powerlifting Paralympics 2024 event is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated competitions in the world of adaptive sports. As Paris prepares to host the Paralympic Games, athletes from around the globe are training rigorously to showcase not just strength, but also determination, resilience, and elite skill.

Whether you’re a fan of powerlifting, a sports enthusiast, or simply curious about the Paralympic movement, this guide will give you everything you need to know about the Powerlifting Paralympics 2024—from event format and classification to top contenders and how you can follow the action live.

What Is Powerlifting in the Paralympics?

Paralympic powerlifting is a test of pure upper-body strength. Unlike Olympic-style powerlifting, which includes the squat, deadlift, and bench press, Paralympic powerlifting focuses exclusively on the bench press. Athletes lie flat on a specially designed bench and attempt to lift the maximum weight possible in a single repetition.

This format makes it one of the most accessible yet demanding sports in the Paralympic Games, allowing athletes with lower-limb impairments to compete at the highest level.

Powerlifting Events at the 2024 Paralympics

The powerlifting events for the Paris 2024 Paralympics will take place between September 4–8, 2024, at the South Paris Arena. There are 20 medal events—ten each for men and women—divided by bodyweight categories. These include:

Each lifter has three attempts to record their best lift. The highest successful lift determines their ranking, with ties broken based on body weight—lighter athletes rank higher.

Who Can Compete?

Athletes competing in Paralympic powerlifting typically have impairments that affect their lower limbs or hips, such as:

Spinal cord injuries
Amputations
Cerebral palsy
Short stature
Neurological disorders

To ensure fair competition, each athlete must meet classification criteria set by World Para Powerlifting (WPPO). All participants undergo medical and functional assessments before they are cleared to compete.

Notable Athletes to Watch in Powerlifting Paralympics 2024

The 2024 event will feature several returning champions and rising stars. Here are a few powerlifters who are expected to dominate:

Siamand Rahman (Iran) (Note: Deceased in 2020, legacy still honored)

Often hailed as the strongest Paralympian ever, Rahman set the world record by lifting 310kg in 2016. Though he sadly passed away in 2020, his achievements continue to inspire the new generation.

Sherif Osman (Egypt)

A multiple gold medalist with a track record of dominance in the 59kg category. Sherif will be defending his title with fierce determination and experience.

Lucy Ejike (Nigeria)

A trailblazer in women’s powerlifting, Lucy has multiple Paralympic medals and is aiming to add another to her collection in Paris.

Le Van Cong (Vietnam)

Le made history by becoming Vietnam’s first-ever Paralympic gold medalist. His technical precision and discipline make him a formidable competitor.

Why Powerlifting Is a Highlight of the Paralympics

What makes Paralympic powerlifting truly remarkable is the combination of sheer physical strength, mental toughness, and undeniable spirit. Watching athletes overcome adversity and compete at the highest level is not only inspiring—it also challenges stereotypes about disability and athleticism.

The sport has grown rapidly in popularity over the years, and its inclusion in the 2024 Paralympics will be bigger and better than ever, with advanced coverage, increased sponsorship, and global viewership expected.

How to Watch Powerlifting Paralympics 2024 Live

Fans can tune in via multiple platforms:

Official Paralympics YouTube and social channels
Broadcasts from networks like NBC, Channel 4 (UK), CBC (Canada), and France Télévisions
Paralympic.org live streams
Local sports streaming apps or channels

Make sure to check your local broadcaster’s schedule closer to the date for the most accurate information.

Importance of Powerlifting in the Paralympic Movement

Powerlifting plays a critical role in promoting equality and visibility for athletes with disabilities. The sport emphasizes not just winning medals, but proving what’s possible through dedication and resilience.

By showcasing elite performance in a universally relatable format—lifting heavy weights—Paralympic powerlifting draws fans from all walks of life and helps break down societal barriers.

To learn more about the rules, history, and structure of the Paralympic Games, visit the official Wikipedia page here.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Follow Powerlifting Paralympics 2024

The Powerlifting Paralympics 2024 will offer some of the most compelling moments of the entire Paris Games. From record-breaking lifts to emotional victories, this event is more than just a contest of strength—it’s a celebration of human potential.

If you’re looking for motivation, entertainment, or simply a deeper understanding of adaptive sports, make sure to follow the journey of these world-class athletes. Bookmark the dates, tune in to the action, and witness history in the making.

Quick Facts Recap:

Dates: September 4–8, 2024
Location: South Paris Arena, Paris, France
Events: 20 medal categories (10 men, 10 women)
Broadcast: Global networks & online platforms
Main focus: Bench press discipline
Inspiration: Overcoming adversity through strength