The 2024 Paralympics explained: How the event classification system works

Jyoti Gaderiya of India rides during the women's C1-3 3000m individual pursuit qualifying round at the Paris Paralympics on August 29, 2024. © Thibault Camus, AP

The first events of the Paris Paralympics kicked off early on Thursday, introducing many viewers unfamiliar with parasports to C4-5 track cycling races, SL3 badminton matches and S9 swimming heats. Based on the type and degree of impairment, the Paralympics’ classification system is designed to ensure fair competition between Paralympians. Here’s how it works. 

While they share most venues with the Olympic Games, the Paralympics are a separate entity, with their own history, logo, culture and technical language.