Thursday, 10 Oct 2024

BWF Becomes IPC Member

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has recently gained membership in the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) during their 17th General Assembly in Mexico City. This significant milestone solidifies the partnership between BWF and the global governing body of the Paralympic movement. It also follows the historic inclusion of para-badminton in the sports program of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.

Strengthening Ties

BWF President Poul-Erik Høyer and BWF Chair – Para-Badminton Paul Kurzo attended the two-day meeting, which included an information day for IPC membership. The admission of BWF as a member of IPC reflects their commitment to serving athletes with impairments. Høyer expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We look forward to a strong and wonderful relationship with IPC and working together for the betterment of para-sports, particularly para-badminton.”

Welcoming New Members

In addition to BWF, three other international federations were granted IPC membership: the World Taekwondo Federation, the International Sailing Federation, and the International Federation of CP (Cerebral Palsy) Football. Alongside these four federations, five National Paralympic Committees (NPCs) were also approved for membership, bringing the total to nine new organizations joining IPC.

Positive Changes

During the General Assembly, several motions were passed, including the approval of the 2015 IPC Athlete Classification Code. Effective from January 1, 2017, the new code prioritizes athletes’ needs and improves accessibility. This update was the result of extensive consultation with stakeholders, incorporating over 2,700 comments received since June 2013.

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Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games

The IPC Governing Board finalized the venues for 19 of the 22 Paralympic sports at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, and it was decided that para-badminton would share the Yoyogi National Stadium with wheelchair rugby. The details of the sports program for Tokyo 2020 will be announced in early 2017, following an evaluation of the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games sports program. BWF will then be informed of the number of allocated athletes and will subsequently announce the Sport Classes and qualification process in late 2017 or early 2018.

BWF Becomes IPC Member

FAQs

Q: What is the significance of BWF becoming an IPC member?
A: BWF becoming an IPC member highlights their commitment to serving athletes with impairments and further strengthens the relationship between the two organizations.

Q: What other organizations were granted IPC membership?
A: Alongside BWF, the World Taekwondo Federation, the International Sailing Federation, and the International Federation of CP (Cerebral Palsy) Football were also approved for IPC membership.

Q: What changes were made to the IPC Athlete Classification Code?
A: The 2015 IPC Athlete Classification Code was updated to be more athlete-focused and accessible, following extensive consultation with stakeholders.

Conclusion

The admission of BWF as a member of IPC signifies an important step towards the development of para-sports, particularly para-badminton. With a strong partnership between BWF and IPC, athletes with impairments can look forward to enhanced support and opportunities. As the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games draw near, the inclusion of para-badminton and the finalization of venues demonstrate the continued growth and inclusivity of the Paralympic movement.

Tham Khảo Thêm:  BWF News