Story perspectives

France Pushes for Inclusion of Athletes with Disabilities in 2030 Paralympics

3/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

France seeks to include athletes with cognitive disabilities in 2030 Winter Paralympics after 1998 exclusion over a cheating scandal.
Mélanie De Bona and Antoine Maure train rigorously but cannot participate.
French officials, supported by government, say conditions for return are ready.
The International Paralympic Committee has not received medal-event proposals since 2009.
The International Ski and Snowboard Federation would consider inclusion if safety and performance standards are met.

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Story summary

France seeks to include athletes with cognitive disabilities in 2030 Winter Paralympics after 1998 exclusion over a cheating scandal.
Mélanie De Bona and Antoine Maure train rigorously but cannot participate.
French officials, supported by government, say conditions for return are ready.
The International Paralympic Committee has not received medal-event proposals since 2009.
The International Ski and Snowboard Federation would consider inclusion if safety and performance standards are met.