Ellie Simmonds was present to sign the Road to Paris Pilot Project extension to include the Paralympic Games. WFSGI

The World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry (WFSGI) has announced the extension of its Uniform Support Programme and Road to Paris Pilot Project to include the upcoming Paralympic Games in Paris 2024.

The initiative aims to provide greater visibility and support to Paralympic athletes, ensuring they are equipped with the best possible gear on the world’s biggest sporting stage. As part of the Uniform Support Programme, 63 athletes will receive state-of-the-art sports gear and equipment, thanks to donations from seven leading global sports brands: adidas, ASICS, Arena SpA, Nike, PUMA, Speedo, and Under Armour. 

Such programme is dedicated to fostering solidarity within the Paralympic community, assisting National Paralympic Committees (NPCs) that need help procuring competition-compliant uniforms. Each uniform, bearing the NPC's name and emblem, is meticulously tailored to the athlete, reflecting the Paralympic Games' commitment to excellence and equality.

The Paralympics will get underway from 29 August until 8 September in Paris. GETTY IMAGES
The Paralympics will get underway from 29 August until 8 September in Paris. GETTY IMAGES

WFSGI CEO Emma Zwiebler expressed pride in extending the programme to Paralympic athletes for the Paris Games, emphasising the importance of athletes being fully prepared without concerns about their uniforms. She thanked the seven participating brands, noting that every athlete deserves to compete without worrying about their gear. Uniform distribution began on 21 August at the Paralympic Village and runs through 29 August.

In addition to the Uniform Support Programme, the WFSGI’s Road to Paris Pilot Project has been expanded to enhance the visibility of Paralympic athletes. Under this project, 17 WFSGI member brands have the opportunity to celebrate the journeys of their sponsored athletes leading up to and during the Paralympic Games. 

These brands can share inspiring stories of their athletes and NPC teams through social media campaigns, connecting with younger audiences in new and innovative ways. The initiative is designed to generate excitement about the athletes and the Games, ensuring their stories resonate beyond the traditional digital Olympic and Paralympic community.

Ellie Simmonds was present to sign the Road to Paris Pilot Project extension to include the Paralympic Games. WFSGI
Ellie Simmonds was present to sign the Road to Paris Pilot Project extension to include the Paralympic Games. WFSGI

Ellie Simmonds, an 8-time Paralympic medalist in swimming, joined WFSGI CEO Emma Zwiebler and WFSGI Chair Andy Rubin in signing the extension of the Road to Paris Pilot Project to include the Paralympic Games. This agreement underscores the ongoing efforts of both the IPC and WFSGI to support athletes' careers and well-being, both on and off the field.

It also reflects WFSGI’s commitment to promoting sport from playground to podium, leveraging its collective influence to create a healthier, more active planet for all. Through this collaboration, the WFSGI aims to engage fans globally and ensure that the inspirational stories of Paralympic athletes continue to inspire future generations.