Ace India batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli</a> announced his T20I retirement shortly after India lifted the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas. Joining him were two giants of Indian cricket, captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" rel="dofollow">Rohit Sharma</a> and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. Although Rohit and Jadeja haven&rsquo;t looked back at this format, Kohli has hinted at making a shock comeback to playing T20Is on one condition.
Kohli is perhaps the biggest name in world cricket, and his records speak for him. Owing to his cricket greatness and popularity amongst countless cricketers worldwide, Kohli is the most-followed Indian on the social media app Instagram. His reach and cricket&rsquo;s dominance in the South Asian market forced the International Olympic Committee (IOA) to consider adding this sport to the Olympic Programme for LA28, for which they used his cover photo to popularise it among non-playing countries.
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/price-tag-pressure-exists-but-once-youre-kkrs-venkatesh-iyer-ahead-of-ipl-2025-8856015" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Price tag pressure exists but once you&rsquo;re&hellip;,&rsquo; KKR&rsquo;s Venkatesh Iyer ahead of IPL 2025</a>
Although Kohli has achieved everything that there is in cricket, one medal absent from his decorated cabinet is for which he can consider returning to playing T20Is.
'If India reaches the Olympics final in 2028, (I) might just think of coming out of retirement for that one match. Winning an Olympic medal would be magnificent,' Kohli said on the sidelines of Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit, powered by Leaders.
Kohli, 36, is as fit as anyone in the game, but should he plan to stick around when the Olympics in 2028 comes across, he&rsquo;d be approaching 40. Given his fitness and hunger to do more for his country, Kohli can play for the next three years.&nbsp;
However, speaking on the same lines, Kohli revealed what inspired him to embark on his fitness journey.
"My transformations came after a few tough tours when I saw the guys lasting on the field longer than us. From the team's point of view, things were not tough, but convincing my mum was tough. She thought I was looking sick. I told her that the world is talking about my training methods and I am not sick. I felt that I was able to do things much better," he added.
<h2>Ready for IPL</h2>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-virat-kohli-joins-royal-challengers-bengaluru-squad-ahead-of-season-opener-against-kkr-8855737" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli has joined the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) camp</a> for IPL 2025 starting March 22. RCB will face the defending champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), in the curtain raiser at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m8aatn6y-nbhzgo53-vtkjqg5w">
This Man and the Aura. 😮&zwj;💨🤌 <a href="https://t.co/TkBv879DQs">pic.twitter.com/TkBv879DQs</a>
&mdash; Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1900857559504031985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
Besides, when Kohli takes the field against the KKR next Saturday, he will create history by becoming the first player ever to feature for the same franchise for 18 straight years.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Although Kohli has achieved everything in cricket, one medal absent from his decorated cabinet is for which he can consider returning to playing T20Is.

Ace India batter Virat Kohli announced his T20I retirement shortly after India lifted the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas. Joining him were two giants of Indian cricket, captain Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. Although Rohit and Jadeja haven’t looked back at this format, Kohli has hinted at making a shock comeback to playing T20Is on one condition. Kohli is perhaps the biggest name in world cricket, and his records speak for him. Owing to his cricket greatness and popularity amongst countless cricketers worldwide, Kohli is the most-followed Indian on the social media app Instagram. His reach and cricket’s dominance in the South Asian market forced the International Olympic Committee (IOA) to consider adding this sport to the Olympic Programme for LA28, for which they used his cover photo to popularise it among non-playing countries. Also read | ‘Price tag pressure exists but once you’re…,’ KKR’s Venkatesh Iyer ahead of IPL 2025 Although Kohli has achieved everything that there is in cricket, one medal absent from his decorated cabinet is for which he can consider returning to playing T20Is. 'If India reaches the Olympics final in 2028, (I) might just think of coming out of retirement for that one match. Winning an Olympic medal would be magnificent,' Kohli said on the sidelines of Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit, powered by Leaders. Kohli, 36, is as fit as anyone in the game, but should he plan to stick around when the Olympics in 2028 comes across, he’d be approaching 40. Given his fitness and hunger to do more for his country, Kohli can play for the next three years. However, speaking on the same lines, Kohli revealed what inspired him to embark on his fitness journey. "My transformations came after a few tough tours when I saw the guys lasting on the field longer than us. From the team's point of view, things were not tough, but convincing my mum was tough. She thought I was looking sick. I told her that the world is talking about my training methods and I am not sick. I felt that I was able to do things much better," he added. Ready for IPL Virat Kohli has joined the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) camp for IPL 2025 starting March 22. RCB will face the defending champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), in the curtain raiser at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. This Man and the Aura. 😮‍💨🤌 pic.twitter.com/TkBv879DQs — Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) March 15, 2025 Besides, when Kohli takes the field against the KKR next Saturday, he will create history by becoming the first player ever to feature for the same franchise for 18 straight years. (With inputs from agencies)

Virat Kohli hints at coming out of T20I retirement but only on one condition

IOC President Thomas Bach has suggested that a ceasefire could influence the decision to lift Russia's ban from international sports. At the Paris 2024 Olympics, only a handful of Russian athletes participated as neutrals. With ongoing discussions, will Russia make a full return to global competition?

IOC chief Thomas Bach hints at lifting Russia ban after ceasefire

Outgoing IOC President Thomas Bach shares his views on Donald Trump’s presidency and expresses confidence that Trump will fully support the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. As the International Olympic Committee prepares to elect a new chief on March 20, Bach also addresses the recent Khelif controversy, calling it “fake news.”

Outgoing IOC chief Thomas Bach confident of Trump’s support for LA 2028

American <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/long-jump">long jump</a> great Greg Bell, who had been the oldest living <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/olympics">Olympic</a> gold medallist in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/athletics">athletics</a>, has died at the age of 94.
Bell breathed his last on January 25, according to World Athletics which paid tribute to the 1956 Olympic long jump gold medallist.
"World Athletics is deeply saddened to hear that Greg Bell, the 1956 Olympic long jump champion, died on Saturday at the age of 94. He had been the oldest living Olympic gold medallist in athletics," it said.
Bell was the world's leading men's long jumper of the 1950s. As well as winning the Olympic title in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/melbourne">Melbourne</a>, his personal best of 8.10 m he produced in Austin, USA, in 1957 was just three centimetres off the world record that had been set by Jesse Owens in 1935.
He also jumped 8.09 m in 1956 and 8.10 m again in 1959. Bell was born in Terre Haute, Indiana, in the USA on November 7, 1930 and he attended Garfield High School.
After starting work and then serving in the army, he joined Indiana University and remained undefeated in the long jump throughout his collegiate career, including wins at the NCAA Championships.
At the 1956 Olympic Games, a 26-year-old Bell jumped 7.83 m in challenging conditions to win by 15 cm ahead of his compatriot John Bennett.
Bell went on to secure silver at the Pan American Games in Chicago in 1959 and retired after finishing fourth at the US Olympic Trials in 1960.
After earning his undergraduate degree from Indiana University, Bell later became a dentist. He was the director of dentistry at Logansport State Hospital for 50 years, before his retirement in 2020 at the age of 89.
As well as being an Indiana University Hall of Famer, Bell was inducted into the US National Track and Field Hall of Fame in 1988.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Olympics Sports: Bell breathed his last on January 25, according to World Athletics, which paid tribute to the 1956 Olympic long jump gold medallist

American long jump great Greg Bell, who had been the oldest living Olympic gold medallist in athletics, has died at the age of 94. Bell breathed his last on January 25, according to World Athletics which paid tribute to the 1956 Olympic long jump gold medallist. "World Athletics is deeply saddened to hear that Greg Bell, the 1956 Olympic long jump champion, died on Saturday at the age of 94. He had been the oldest living Olympic gold medallist in athletics," it said. Bell was the world's leading men's long jumper of the 1950s. As well as winning the Olympic title in Melbourne, his personal best of 8.10 m he produced in Austin, USA, in 1957 was just three centimetres off the world record that had been set by Jesse Owens in 1935. He also jumped 8.09 m in 1956 and 8.10 m again in 1959. Bell was born in Terre Haute, Indiana, in the USA on November 7, 1930 and he attended Garfield High School. After starting work and then serving in the army, he joined Indiana University and remained undefeated in the long jump throughout his collegiate career, including wins at the NCAA Championships. At the 1956 Olympic Games, a 26-year-old Bell jumped 7.83 m in challenging conditions to win by 15 cm ahead of his compatriot John Bennett. Bell went on to secure silver at the Pan American Games in Chicago in 1959 and retired after finishing fourth at the US Olympic Trials in 1960. After earning his undergraduate degree from Indiana University, Bell later became a dentist. He was the director of dentistry at Logansport State Hospital for 50 years, before his retirement in 2020 at the age of 89. As well as being an Indiana University Hall of Famer, Bell was inducted into the US National Track and Field Hall of Fame in 1988. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Greg Bell, oldest living Olympic gold medallist in athletics, dies at 94

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India is using all of its resources to secure the hosting rights for the 2036 Olympics. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 38th National Games in Dehradun on Tuesday (Jan 28), PM Modi said hosting the Games in the country will boost the profile of Indian sports.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has submitted a Letter of Intent to the Future Host Commission of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), formally expressing India's interest in hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2036.
"We are pushing for hosting rights of 2036 Olympics, it will take Indian sports to new heights," PM Modi said.
"Wherever Olympics happen, all sectors gain. It creates better facilities for athletes," he added.
Modi announced India's intention to host the 2036 Games during the 2023 International Olympic Committee Session. The IOA has filed an official expression of interest with the IOC.
"It is our endeavour to enhance your capabilities, and we are focussed on supporting you. We consider sports an essential aspect in the development of country," Modi said, while addressing the gathered athletes at the ceremony.
"It is a beautiful portrait of 'Ek Bharat, Sreshth Bharat'," Modi said, referring to the Games.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-eng-3rd-t20i-varun-chakravarthy-five-wicket-video-watch-india-vs-england-rajkot-8662142">IND vs ENG 3rd T20I: WATCH | Varun Chakravarthy takes five-wicket haul</a>
Los Angeles is scheduled to host the 2028 Summer Olympics, and Brisbane, Australia, will host the 2032 Games.
Meanwhile, the 38th National Games began on Tuesday in Uttarakhand with a vibrant ceremony celebrating the state's religious heritage and biodiversity. Around 10,000 athletes will compete across 32 disciplines until February 14, with events held in seven cities, Dehradun being the main venue.
Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the Games, attended by 25,000 spectators despite chilly weather, alongside Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami and other dignitaries. PM Modi received traditional gifts and replicas of the mascot 'Mauli,' inspired by the state bird Monal. The Games coincide with Uttarakhand's 25th anniversary.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Olympics Sports: PM announced India's intention to host 2036 Games during the 2023 International Olympic Committee Session. The Indian Olympic Association has filed an official expression of interest with IOC

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India is using all of its resources to secure the hosting rights for the 2036 Olympics. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 38th National Games in Dehradun on Tuesday (Jan 28), PM Modi said hosting the Games in the country will boost the profile of Indian sports. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has submitted a Letter of Intent to the Future Host Commission of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), formally expressing India's interest in hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2036. "We are pushing for hosting rights of 2036 Olympics, it will take Indian sports to new heights," PM Modi said. "Wherever Olympics happen, all sectors gain. It creates better facilities for athletes," he added. Modi announced India's intention to host the 2036 Games during the 2023 International Olympic Committee Session. The IOA has filed an official expression of interest with the IOC. "It is our endeavour to enhance your capabilities, and we are focussed on supporting you. We consider sports an essential aspect in the development of country," Modi said, while addressing the gathered athletes at the ceremony. "It is a beautiful portrait of 'Ek Bharat, Sreshth Bharat'," Modi said, referring to the Games. Also Read: IND vs ENG 3rd T20I: WATCH | Varun Chakravarthy takes five-wicket haul Los Angeles is scheduled to host the 2028 Summer Olympics, and Brisbane, Australia, will host the 2032 Games. Meanwhile, the 38th National Games began on Tuesday in Uttarakhand with a vibrant ceremony celebrating the state's religious heritage and biodiversity. Around 10,000 athletes will compete across 32 disciplines until February 14, with events held in seven cities, Dehradun being the main venue. Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the Games, attended by 25,000 spectators despite chilly weather, alongside Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami and other dignitaries. PM Modi received traditional gifts and replicas of the mascot 'Mauli,' inspired by the state bird Monal. The Games coincide with Uttarakhand's 25th anniversary. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi reiterates India's bid to host 2036 Olympics, says 'it will take Indian sports to new heights'

International Cricket Council (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/international-cricket-council">ICC</a>) chairman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jay-shah">Jay Shah</a> on Tuesday (Jan 21) met International Olympic Committee (IOC) president&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/thomas-bach">Thomas Bach</a> ahead of the Extraordinary IOC session in Lausanne, Switzerland from January 30.
Both of them talked about cricket and appeared to have delved into cricket history and discussed including cricket in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
&ldquo;Momentum continues to build around cricket&rsquo;s inclusion as an @Olympics sport at the @LA2028 Games and beyond, with @JayShah meeting International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach in Lausanne, Switzerland this week,&rdquo; the ICC posted on X on Tuesday (Jan 21).
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-another-controversy-as-pcb-accuses-bcci-of-bringing-politics-into-cricket-8641285">2025 Champions Trophy: Another controversy as PCB accuses BCCI of ' bringing politics into cricket'</a>
Shah, who was elected as ICC chairman last year and took over the role on December 1, 2024, has been actively pushing for cricket&rsquo;s inclusion in the Olympics. He was in Brisbane last month during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and met 2032 Brisbane Olympic Organising Committee head Cindy Hook and Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley, trying to convince them to include cricket in the 2032 Olympics.
Watch the post below:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Momentum continues to build around cricket&rsquo;s inclusion as an <a href="https://twitter.com/Olympics?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Olympics</a> sport at the @LA2028 Games and beyond, with <a href="https://twitter.com/JayShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JayShah</a> meeting International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach in Lausanne, Switzerland this week. <a href="https://t.co/hiySGMGNPg">pic.twitter.com/hiySGMGNPg</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1881649082701422795?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Would like to play at the Olympics: Smith</h2>
Cricket will be set for a return in the upcoming Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. The last time it was a part of the quadrennial event was in 1900. At that time, it featured only Great Britain and France. This time, with enhanced anticipation and excitement among players. A World Cup winner is also eager to be a part of the competition in the quadrennial event.
"I would like to play at the Olympics, I reckon that would be cool. We&rsquo;ll see how far I go in terms of long form cricket. But I am going to play short form cricket for a while I think when I do finish, you never know," Australia cricketer Steve Smith said as per Forbes.
Cricket will be back alongside baseball and softball, flag football, lacrosse and squash. The play is expected to be hosted in the T20 format for both men and women.

Shah, who was elected as ICC chairman last year and took over the role on 1 December 2024, has been actively pushing for cricket’s inclusion in the Olympics. Sports. Cricket.

International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman Jay Shah on Tuesday (Jan 21) met International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach ahead of the Extraordinary IOC session in Lausanne, Switzerland from January 30. Both of them talked about cricket and appeared to have delved into cricket history and discussed including cricket in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. “Momentum continues to build around cricket’s inclusion as an @Olympics sport at the @LA2028 Games and beyond, with @JayShah meeting International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach in Lausanne, Switzerland this week,” the ICC posted on X on Tuesday (Jan 21). Also Read: 2025 Champions Trophy: Another controversy as PCB accuses BCCI of ' bringing politics into cricket' Shah, who was elected as ICC chairman last year and took over the role on December 1, 2024, has been actively pushing for cricket’s inclusion in the Olympics. He was in Brisbane last month during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and met 2032 Brisbane Olympic Organising Committee head Cindy Hook and Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley, trying to convince them to include cricket in the 2032 Olympics. Watch the post below: Momentum continues to build around cricket’s inclusion as an @Olympics sport at the @LA2028 Games and beyond, with @JayShah meeting International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach in Lausanne, Switzerland this week. pic.twitter.com/hiySGMGNPg — ICC (@ICC) January 21, 2025 Would like to play at the Olympics: Smith Cricket will be set for a return in the upcoming Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. The last time it was a part of the quadrennial event was in 1900. At that time, it featured only Great Britain and France. This time, with enhanced anticipation and excitement among players. A World Cup winner is also eager to be a part of the competition in the quadrennial event. "I would like to play at the Olympics, I reckon that would be cool. We’ll see how far I go in terms of long form cricket. But I am going to play short form cricket for a while I think when I do finish, you never know," Australia cricketer Steve Smith said as per Forbes. Cricket will be back alongside baseball and softball, flag football, lacrosse and squash. The play is expected to be hosted in the T20 format for both men and women.

As cricket eyes Olympic return, ICC Chairman Jay Shah meets IOC President Thomas Bach in Lausanne

In a shocking revelation by two French athletes on Tuesday (Dec 31), the Paris Olympic Organising Committee was slammed after the state of the medals was revealed. France&rsquo;s Clement Secchi and Yohann Ndoye-Brouard revealed the horror state of the Olympic medals they won during the Paris Games as they deteriorated due to corrosion. This comes just four months after the Olympic Games were concluded in the French capital, underlining the poor quality of the medals.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Paris Olympic medals deteriorated<o:p></o:p></h2>
As revealed by The Telegraph, the French duo became the latest athletes to slam the organising committee. The duo had finished third in the 4x100 metre medley relay in swimming which saw them clinch the bronze medal. 24-year-old Clement Secchi termed the medal&rsquo;s condition as &ldquo;Crocodile skin&rdquo; while taking to his social media handle.<o:p></o:p>
Secchi posted a picture of his bronze medal along with the caption, &ldquo;Crocodile skin&rdquo;, prompting a response from Ndoye-Brouard suggesting his own medal now looked more like one from the &ldquo;Paris 1924&rdquo; Games.<o:p></o:p>
This is not the first time an athlete has slammed the Olympic Committee for poor medal quality. It first emerged while the Paris Games were still on as US skateboarder Nyjah Huston shared images showing his medal had already appeared to tarnish. United States team-mates Nick Itkin and Ilona Maher followed suit days later by revealing the state of the medals they respectively won in fencing and rugby sevens.<o:p></o:p>
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/football/former-england-coach-gareth-southgate-knighted-in-new-year-honours-8579534" aria-label="Former England coach Gareth Southgate knighted in New Year Honours">Former England coach Gareth Southgate knighted in New Year Honours</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Eiffel Tower pieces in Olympic medal<o:p></o:p></h2>
In a design revealed for the Paris Olympic medals in Feb 2024, it consisted of iron pieces embedded in the centre of the medals each weighing 18 grams. The iron pieces were cut from girders and other bits that were swapped out of the Eiffel Tower during renovations and stored for safekeeping, according to Joachim Roncin, head of design at the Paris Games organizing committee.<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Olympics: Clement Secchi and Yohann Ndoye-Brouard revealed the state of the Olympic medals they won during the Paris Games as they deteriorated due to corrosion.

In a shocking revelation by two French athletes on Tuesday (Dec 31), the Paris Olympic Organising Committee was slammed after the state of the medals was revealed. France’s Clement Secchi and Yohann Ndoye-Brouard revealed the horror state of the Olympic medals they won during the Paris Games as they deteriorated due to corrosion. This comes just four months after the Olympic Games were concluded in the French capital, underlining the poor quality of the medals. Paris Olympic medals deteriorated As revealed by The Telegraph, the French duo became the latest athletes to slam the organising committee. The duo had finished third in the 4x100 metre medley relay in swimming which saw them clinch the bronze medal. 24-year-old Clement Secchi termed the medal’s condition as “Crocodile skin” while taking to his social media handle. Secchi posted a picture of his bronze medal along with the caption, “Crocodile skin”, prompting a response from Ndoye-Brouard suggesting his own medal now looked more like one from the “Paris 1924” Games. This is not the first time an athlete has slammed the Olympic Committee for poor medal quality. It first emerged while the Paris Games were still on as US skateboarder Nyjah Huston shared images showing his medal had already appeared to tarnish. United States team-mates Nick Itkin and Ilona Maher followed suit days later by revealing the state of the medals they respectively won in fencing and rugby sevens. ALSO READ | Former England coach Gareth Southgate knighted in New Year Honours Eiffel Tower pieces in Olympic medal In a design revealed for the Paris Olympic medals in Feb 2024, it consisted of iron pieces embedded in the centre of the medals each weighing 18 grams. The iron pieces were cut from girders and other bits that were swapped out of the Eiffel Tower during renovations and stored for safekeeping, according to Joachim Roncin, head of design at the Paris Games organizing committee.

Paris Olympians claim medal condition deteriorating months after quadrennial event

This year, Africa showed a modest improvement in its performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics compared to Tokyo 2020. There were remarkable achievements that showcased incredible grit and resilience.

Africa's Great Improvement at the Paris Olympics

The double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker's name is conspicuously missing from the list of sportspersons nominated for the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award this year. Watch this report for more details!

Manu Bhaker Not In Shortlist For Khel Ratna: Reports

Offering prize money at the Olympic Games was unfair and was shown at the Paris Games to favour a small number of elite athletes to the detriment to others, the International Olympic Committee said Tuesday.

In a taboo-busting move that sparked hugely mixed reactions, World Athletics president Sebastian Coe announced prize money of $50,000 (47,000 euros) for every track and field winner at the Paris Olympics.

No other sports federation pays prize money at the Olympics.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/cristiano-ronaldo-less-al-nassr-suffer-first-asian-champions-league-loss-go-down-to-al-sadd-781074">Cristiano Ronaldo-less Al Nassr suffer first Asian Champions League loss, go down to Al Sadd</a>

IOC spokesman Mark Adams said that the IOC's executive board had discussed the topic of prize money distribution, raised by International Federations and athletes' representatives, on the first day of a meeting in Lausanne.

"There was a large amount of agreement on the topic, I might even say, unanimity," Adams said.

"It was a question... of principle, efficiency and distribution within the Olympic movement."

"The biggest argument is one of fairness."

Adams' comments echo those made by IOC president Thomas Bach to AFP in April and come as seven candidates -- including Coe -- hone their campaigns to succeed the German as head of the Olympic body.

At the Paris Games, Adams said, "If all the medallists, athletes, and teams from all the sports were rewarded, it'd be about 1,000 athletes and teams who would benefit."

"They mostly come from what you might call the well funded and privileged National Olympic Committees. 65% of the individual medallists and teams winning medals are from 15 NOCs who were on top of the medal tally."

"It would only increase the existing inequalities even further... it was felt by the executive board that this goes against the mission of the International Olympic Committee, and it could very easily downgrade the Olympic Games to an elitist event."

"This was a principle supported by the participants, but particularly by the representatives of the IFs and as I said, by the athlete representatives, it's a matter of solidarity."

Adams said that studies of the Paris Games showed that prize money "would really overwhelmingly benefit a very, very small group of elite athletes to the detriment of others".

NOCs rather than international federations were free to motivate their athletes with prize money, he said, citing IOC president Bach's own experience with the German NOC after winning team foil fencing gold at the 1976 Montreal Games.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Offering prize money at the Olympic Games was unfair and was shown at the Paris Games to favour a small number of elite athletes to the detriment to others, the International Olympic Committee said Tuesday.

Offering prize money at the Olympic Games was unfair and was shown at the Paris Games to favour a small number of elite athletes to the detriment to others, the International Olympic Committee said Tuesday. In a taboo-busting move that sparked hugely mixed reactions, World Athletics president Sebastian Coe announced prize money of $50,000 (47,000 euros) for every track and field winner at the Paris Olympics. No other sports federation pays prize money at the Olympics. Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo-less Al Nassr suffer first Asian Champions League loss, go down to Al Sadd IOC spokesman Mark Adams said that the IOC's executive board had discussed the topic of prize money distribution, raised by International Federations and athletes' representatives, on the first day of a meeting in Lausanne. "There was a large amount of agreement on the topic, I might even say, unanimity," Adams said. "It was a question... of principle, efficiency and distribution within the Olympic movement." "The biggest argument is one of fairness." Adams' comments echo those made by IOC president Thomas Bach to AFP in April and come as seven candidates -- including Coe -- hone their campaigns to succeed the German as head of the Olympic body. At the Paris Games, Adams said, "If all the medallists, athletes, and teams from all the sports were rewarded, it'd be about 1,000 athletes and teams who would benefit." "They mostly come from what you might call the well funded and privileged National Olympic Committees. 65% of the individual medallists and teams winning medals are from 15 NOCs who were on top of the medal tally." "It would only increase the existing inequalities even further... it was felt by the executive board that this goes against the mission of the International Olympic Committee, and it could very easily downgrade the Olympic Games to an elitist event." "This was a principle supported by the participants, but particularly by the representatives of the IFs and as I said, by the athlete representatives, it's a matter of solidarity." Adams said that studies of the Paris Games showed that prize money "would really overwhelmingly benefit a very, very small group of elite athletes to the detriment of others". NOCs rather than international federations were free to motivate their athletes with prize money, he said, citing IOC president Bach's own experience with the German NOC after winning team foil fencing gold at the 1976 Montreal Games. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Matter of solidarity: IOC says Olympic prize money offer unfair, favours elite athletes

The reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris coincides with the unveiling of the iconic bell set to feature in the Paris 2024 Olympics, symbolizing the city’s blend of history and modernity as the Games approach.

Paris: Reopening Of Notre Dame Marks Arrival Of Paris Olympics’ Iconic Trackside Bell

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has formally submitted a Letter Of Intent to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to host the Summer Games in 2036. Watch this report for more details!

India Submits Letter of Intent to Host The 2036 Summer Games

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has officially submitted its bid to host the 2036 Olympics on Tuesday (Nov 5) as the nation tries to get its name on the global sports map. The bid also includes intent to host the 2036 Paralympics.&nbsp;The IOA submitted a Letter of Intent to the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) Future Host Commission on October 1. While the bidding process is yet to start, more than 10 cities have shown interest in hosting the 2036 Olympics.

<h2>India submits bid to host Olympics</h2>

"This monumental opportunity could bring substantial benefits, fostering economic growth, social progress, and youth empowerment across the country," a source told India Today.

It has not been a hidden secret that India intends to host the 2036 Olympic Games, as the IOA has been preparing for the bid for some time. In recent years, India’s bid was strengthened having hosted the International Olympic Committee (IOC) general meeting headed by Thomas Bach. India also has a strong representation on the panel, further helping its bid to host the Olympics in 2036.

As things stand, Los Angeles in the United States will host the 2028 Summer Olympics, while Brisbane in Australia will host the 2032 Games. The IOC’s rules state that no continent can host back-to-back summer Olympics, paving the way for an Asian nation to host the Games in 2036.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/gautam-gambhir-went-against-team-management-defied-rahul-dravids-pitch-theory-during-nz-series-report-773416">Gautam Gambhir went against team management, defied Rahul Dravid's 'pitch theory' during NZ Tests: Report</a>

Asia has hosted the Summer Games four times, including the 1964 Tokyo, 1988 Seoul, 2008 Beijing, and 2020 Tokyo Olympics. If successful with the bid, India could become the first nation from South Asia to host the Summer Olympics.

"India is preparing to host the 2036 Olympics. In this regard, the input from athletes who have played in previous Olympics is significant. You all must have observed and experienced many things. We want to document this and share it with the government so that we don't miss out on any small details in the preparation for 2036," PM Narendra Modi had earlier stated.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has officially submitted its bid to host the 2036 Olympics on Tuesday (Nov 5) as the nation tries to get its name on the global sports map.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has officially submitted its bid to host the 2036 Olympics on Tuesday (Nov 5) as the nation tries to get its name on the global sports map. The bid also includes intent to host the 2036 Paralympics. The IOA submitted a Letter of Intent to the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) Future Host Commission on October 1. While the bidding process is yet to start, more than 10 cities have shown interest in hosting the 2036 Olympics. India submits bid to host Olympics "This monumental opportunity could bring substantial benefits, fostering economic growth, social progress, and youth empowerment across the country," a source told India Today. It has not been a hidden secret that India intends to host the 2036 Olympic Games, as the IOA has been preparing for the bid for some time. In recent years, India’s bid was strengthened having hosted the International Olympic Committee (IOC) general meeting headed by Thomas Bach. India also has a strong representation on the panel, further helping its bid to host the Olympics in 2036. As things stand, Los Angeles in the United States will host the 2028 Summer Olympics, while Brisbane in Australia will host the 2032 Games. The IOC’s rules state that no continent can host back-to-back summer Olympics, paving the way for an Asian nation to host the Games in 2036. ALSO READ | Gautam Gambhir went against team management, defied Rahul Dravid's 'pitch theory' during NZ Tests: Report Asia has hosted the Summer Games four times, including the 1964 Tokyo, 1988 Seoul, 2008 Beijing, and 2020 Tokyo Olympics. If successful with the bid, India could become the first nation from South Asia to host the Summer Olympics. "India is preparing to host the 2036 Olympics. In this regard, the input from athletes who have played in previous Olympics is significant. You all must have observed and experienced many things. We want to document this and share it with the government so that we don't miss out on any small details in the preparation for 2036," PM Narendra Modi had earlier stated.

Indian Olympic Association officially submits bid for hosting 2036 Olympics

The Los Angeles Olympics 2028 organisers are sweating hard to find a suitable venue to host the&nbsp;cricket games in the upcoming edition. Cricket is set to return to the Olympics after 128 years. The host city of the 28 Olympic Games is located in California on the West Coast of the United States, however, the cricket matches could reportedly be held on the East Coast (to align the time zone with cricket-crazy countries such as India and other South Asian nations).

Casey Wasserman, head of LA28, told Cricbuzz, "We're still working through the specifics," when asked if New York is under consideration.&nbsp;

The time difference between Los Angeles and India is a significant one. It is 12 hours and 30 minutes and, thus, this&nbsp;means a prime-time night match in LA, around 8 PM, would be broadcast across the Indian subcontinent during&nbsp;early morning (when most will be busy with their daily household and professional work). On the other hand, the time difference between New York and India is slightly less, i.e. nine and a half hours. Hence, it is being seen as a more suitable option.

The matches, which will kick off around 10:30-11:00 AM on the East Coast, such as in New York, would enable the Indian fans to watch the games around 8 PM - a similar approach was also adopted by the International Cricket Council (ICC)&nbsp;for this year's&nbsp;T20 World Cup in June (co-hosted by West Indies and the USA).&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-kane-williamson-ruled-out-of-2nd-test-in-pune-due-to-groin-strain-769600">Ind vs NZ: Kane Williamson ruled out of 2nd Test in Pune due to groin strain</a>

Apart from the time zone considerations, finding a suitable venue is another challenge as there are limited&nbsp;cricket grounds in the US, with the country not known as a cricketing powerhouse. As a result, the LA28 organisers have not yet released the cricket venues, although&nbsp;the same has been done for most other sports.

Thus, the LA28 organisers have a task ahead to conduct the cricket games as the sport's re-inclusion has already generated good buzz.

"Unlike the other new sports, cricket presents a unique venue challenge. LA28 has been vocal about how it plans to keep costs down by utilizing existing venues, but there are very few - if any - suitable cricket venues in California. Or in the rest of the country," the Sportico website&nbsp;said. "The Indian market was a critical part of cricket's pitch to join LA28."

Notably, the format and qualification process for the cricket&nbsp;games&nbsp;at the 2028 Olympics are still being finalised. It is&nbsp;expected that the top six men’s and women’s teams in the ICC T20 rankings, at a certain cutoff date, will take part in the showpiece event.

The Los Angeles Olympics 2028 organisers are sweating hard to find a suitable venue to host the cricket games in the upcoming edition. Cricket is set to return to the Olympics after 128 years.

The Los Angeles Olympics 2028 organisers are sweating hard to find a suitable venue to host the cricket games in the upcoming edition. Cricket is set to return to the Olympics after 128 years. The host city of the 28 Olympic Games is located in California on the West Coast of the United States, however, the cricket matches could reportedly be held on the East Coast (to align the time zone with cricket-crazy countries such as India and other South Asian nations). Casey Wasserman, head of LA28, told Cricbuzz, "We're still working through the specifics," when asked if New York is under consideration. The time difference between Los Angeles and India is a significant one. It is 12 hours and 30 minutes and, thus, this means a prime-time night match in LA, around 8 PM, would be broadcast across the Indian subcontinent during early morning (when most will be busy with their daily household and professional work). On the other hand, the time difference between New York and India is slightly less, i.e. nine and a half hours. Hence, it is being seen as a more suitable option. The matches, which will kick off around 10:30-11:00 AM on the East Coast, such as in New York, would enable the Indian fans to watch the games around 8 PM - a similar approach was also adopted by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for this year's T20 World Cup in June (co-hosted by West Indies and the USA). Also read: Ind vs NZ: Kane Williamson ruled out of 2nd Test in Pune due to groin strain Apart from the time zone considerations, finding a suitable venue is another challenge as there are limited cricket grounds in the US, with the country not known as a cricketing powerhouse. As a result, the LA28 organisers have not yet released the cricket venues, although the same has been done for most other sports. Thus, the LA28 organisers have a task ahead to conduct the cricket games as the sport's re-inclusion has already generated good buzz. "Unlike the other new sports, cricket presents a unique venue challenge. LA28 has been vocal about how it plans to keep costs down by utilizing existing venues, but there are very few - if any - suitable cricket venues in California. Or in the rest of the country," the Sportico website said. "The Indian market was a critical part of cricket's pitch to join LA28." Notably, the format and qualification process for the cricket games at the 2028 Olympics are still being finalised. It is expected that the top six men’s and women’s teams in the ICC T20 rankings, at a certain cutoff date, will take part in the showpiece event.

Los Angeles Olympics 2028 to host cricket matches in New York: Report

India is all set to make its debut in a new and unique sport as athletes will compete in surfing at the Asian Games 2026. The Games, which will be held in Japan, will be an opportunity for Indian surfers to showcase their talent. While the focus is on the 2026 Asian Games, the surfers in India got much-needed attention in Chennai’s Kovalam, a small town in India’s South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. In an event hosted in sponsorship with Red Bull, popular Irish surfer Conor Maguire helped train 17 surfers while he was in the town for a surfing festival.

<h2>Conor in awe of the Indian coastline</h2>

“India has one of the longest coastlines and has an archipelago on both coasts, so the potential for waves here is awesome. I've noticed surfing hotspots on both coasts, clearly, India is an amazing place to come and surf. Travelling surfers bring a lot to the table. Those from Australia and Hawaii, they do really well,” Conor said while speaking to WION.

Red Bull has put in efforts towards strengthening the surfing ecosystem in India and mentoring young Indian surfers. He also reckoned the current facilities and hunger for success have got them going and helped them qualify for the Asian Games.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-rankings-bumrah-gains-top-spot-in-test-bowlers-jaiswal-goes-third-in-batters-after-bangladesh-win-763871">ICC Rankings: Bumrah gains top spot among Test bowlers, Jaiswal third in batting after Bangladesh win</a>

“Our end goal is to select an Indian surfer that Red Bull can support and sponsor. There's one girl who started as young as 3, her younger brother started as young as 7 months," Conor said about the Indian surfers he's been training at Kovalam.

The waves in Chennai are perfect for training as they are small and consistent. According to Conor, surfing is all about practice and repetition, contests usually take place in wave conditions like these.

While India prepares for the 2026 Asian Games, for now, the focus stays on the next crop of surfers as the long-term target remains the Olympic Games.

India is all set to make its debut in a new and unique sport as athletes will compete in surfing at the Asian Games 2026. The Games, which will be held in Japan, will be an opportunity for Indian surfers to showcase their talent.

India is all set to make its debut in a new and unique sport as athletes will compete in surfing at the Asian Games 2026. The Games, which will be held in Japan, will be an opportunity for Indian surfers to showcase their talent. While the focus is on the 2026 Asian Games, the surfers in India got much-needed attention in Chennai’s Kovalam, a small town in India’s South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. In an event hosted in sponsorship with Red Bull, popular Irish surfer Conor Maguire helped train 17 surfers while he was in the town for a surfing festival. Conor in awe of the Indian coastline “India has one of the longest coastlines and has an archipelago on both coasts, so the potential for waves here is awesome. I've noticed surfing hotspots on both coasts, clearly, India is an amazing place to come and surf. Travelling surfers bring a lot to the table. Those from Australia and Hawaii, they do really well,” Conor said while speaking to WION. Red Bull has put in efforts towards strengthening the surfing ecosystem in India and mentoring young Indian surfers. He also reckoned the current facilities and hunger for success have got them going and helped them qualify for the Asian Games. ALSO READ | ICC Rankings: Bumrah gains top spot among Test bowlers, Jaiswal third in batting after Bangladesh win “Our end goal is to select an Indian surfer that Red Bull can support and sponsor. There's one girl who started as young as 3, her younger brother started as young as 7 months," Conor said about the Indian surfers he's been training at Kovalam. The waves in Chennai are perfect for training as they are small and consistent. According to Conor, surfing is all about practice and repetition, contests usually take place in wave conditions like these. While India prepares for the 2026 Asian Games, for now, the focus stays on the next crop of surfers as the long-term target remains the Olympic Games.

'India is an amazing place for surfing': Conor Maguire praises conditions

IOC Vice President Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr is being seen as a potential successor to IOC Chief Thomas Bach. Samaranch Jr was recently in New Delhi for the general assembly meeting of the Olympic Council of Asia and spoke to Wion's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo on the major challenges of the Olympic movement.

IOC VP Samaranch Jr : Fairness cornerstone of Olympic movement

Australian breaker Rachael Gunn has topped the latest world rankings despite her heavily-criticised performance at the Paris Olympics. Watch in for more details!

Olympic flop Rachael Gunn earns world no. 1 ranking in Breakdancing

Trigger Warning: This article contains details about domestic violence.

A Ugandan Olympian was in intensive care in Kenya on Tuesday, suffering 80 per cent burns after being doused with petrol and set on fire allegedly by her partner, the latest horrific incident of gender-based violence in the East African country.

Long-distance runner Rebecca Cheptegei was assaulted after her Kenyan boyfriend Dickson Ndiema Marangach reportedly snuck into her home in Endebess in the western county of Trans-Nzoia at around 2:00 pm on Sunday while she and her children were at church, police said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/premier-league-202425-erik-ten-hag-has-manchester-uniteds-full-backing-says-ceo-omar-berrada-755577">Premier League 2024/25: Erik Ten Hag has Manchester United's full backing, says CEO Omar Berrada</a>

The attack took place just three weeks after the 33-year-old took part in the women's marathon at the Paris Olympics, where she was placed 44th.

"Dickson, who had procured petrol, began pouring (it) on Rebecca before he set her ablaze," a police report said Monday, adding that he was also injured by the flames.

It said that neighbours had put out the fire and taken the pair to nearby Kitale County Referral Hospital, where they were admitted with "multiple burns".

They were later transferred to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in the Rift Valley city of Eldoret, where Cheptegei was admitted to the intensive care unit on Monday.

<h2>- Fighting to save her life -</h2>

"She sustained more than 80 per cent burns in the attack," the hospital's acting CEO Owen Menach told reporters.

"The burns were really, really severe, some of them are really deep, especially right to the muscles in the back," he said.

"We're doing all we can to save her life."

A member of staff at the hospital, requesting anonymity as they were not authorised to speak to the media, told AFP that Cheptegei's condition looked "serious with facial burns and bandages".

The police report did not mention if Cheptegei's children were hurt in the attack. Local media reported that her father and sister were at the hospital.

The Ugandan athlete and Marangach were a couple who "constantly had family wrangles", the police report said.&nbsp;

Acting hospital CEO Menach said that Marangach had also been admitted for treatment after sustaining burns to 30 per cent of his body.

Cheptegei is believed to have bought land and built a house in the Trans-Nzoia area, which lies on the border with Uganda, according to local media.

<h2>- 'Totally uncalled-for attack' -</h2>

Donald Rukare, president of the Uganda Olympic Committee, said the athlete was "viciously attacked" and wished her a full recovery.

"Let's all say NO to violence especially against women. This is totally unacceptable and we condemn this totally uncalled for attack," he posted on X.

The Ugandan Athletics Federation also expressed regret over the incident, saying on X that Cheptegei had "suffered severe injuries".

Latest figures by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics published in January 2023 found that 34 per cent of women in the country have experienced physical violence since the age of 15.

It said women who had "been married are much more likely to have experienced violence", noting that 41 per cent of such women reported incidents compared to 20 per cent of unmarried women.

The assault on Cheptegei comes two years after Kenyan-born athlete Damaris Mutua was found dead in Iten, a world-famous running hub in the Rift Valley in the west of the country.

Her death followed the murder of record-breaking runner Agnes Tirop, 25, who was found stabbed to death at her home in Iten in 2021.

Tirop's estranged husband, Emmanuel Ibrahim Rotich, went on trial over her murder in 2023. He has denied the charges. His trial is ongoing.

(Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.)

Trigger Warning: This article contains details about domestic violence. A Ugandan Olympian was in intensive care in Kenya on Tuesday, suffering 80 per cent burns after being doused with petrol and set on fire allegedly by her partner, the latest horrific incident of gender-based violence in the East African country.

Trigger Warning: This article contains details about domestic violence. A Ugandan Olympian was in intensive care in Kenya on Tuesday, suffering 80 per cent burns after being doused with petrol and set on fire allegedly by her partner, the latest horrific incident of gender-based violence in the East African country. Long-distance runner Rebecca Cheptegei was assaulted after her Kenyan boyfriend Dickson Ndiema Marangach reportedly snuck into her home in Endebess in the western county of Trans-Nzoia at around 2:00 pm on Sunday while she and her children were at church, police said. Also Read: Premier League 2024/25: Erik Ten Hag has Manchester United's full backing, says CEO Omar Berrada The attack took place just three weeks after the 33-year-old took part in the women's marathon at the Paris Olympics, where she was placed 44th. "Dickson, who had procured petrol, began pouring (it) on Rebecca before he set her ablaze," a police report said Monday, adding that he was also injured by the flames. It said that neighbours had put out the fire and taken the pair to nearby Kitale County Referral Hospital, where they were admitted with "multiple burns". They were later transferred to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in the Rift Valley city of Eldoret, where Cheptegei was admitted to the intensive care unit on Monday. - Fighting to save her life - "She sustained more than 80 per cent burns in the attack," the hospital's acting CEO Owen Menach told reporters. "The burns were really, really severe, some of them are really deep, especially right to the muscles in the back," he said. "We're doing all we can to save her life." A member of staff at the hospital, requesting anonymity as they were not authorised to speak to the media, told AFP that Cheptegei's condition looked "serious with facial burns and bandages". The police report did not mention if Cheptegei's children were hurt in the attack. Local media reported that her father and sister were at the hospital. The Ugandan athlete and Marangach were a couple who "constantly had family wrangles", the police report said. Acting hospital CEO Menach said that Marangach had also been admitted for treatment after sustaining burns to 30 per cent of his body. Cheptegei is believed to have bought land and built a house in the Trans-Nzoia area, which lies on the border with Uganda, according to local media. - 'Totally uncalled-for attack' - Donald Rukare, president of the Uganda Olympic Committee, said the athlete was "viciously attacked" and wished her a full recovery. "Let's all say NO to violence especially against women. This is totally unacceptable and we condemn this totally uncalled for attack," he posted on X. The Ugandan Athletics Federation also expressed regret over the incident, saying on X that Cheptegei had "suffered severe injuries". Latest figures by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics published in January 2023 found that 34 per cent of women in the country have experienced physical violence since the age of 15. It said women who had "been married are much more likely to have experienced violence", noting that 41 per cent of such women reported incidents compared to 20 per cent of unmarried women. The assault on Cheptegei comes two years after Kenyan-born athlete Damaris Mutua was found dead in Iten, a world-famous running hub in the Rift Valley in the west of the country. Her death followed the murder of record-breaking runner Agnes Tirop, 25, who was found stabbed to death at her home in Iten in 2021. Tirop's estranged husband, Emmanuel Ibrahim Rotich, went on trial over her murder in 2023. He has denied the charges. His trial is ongoing. (Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.)

Uganda Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei suffers 80 per cent burns after being set on fire by partner

The 2024 Paralympics opened in Paris on Wednesday in a colourful and hope-filled ceremony, starting 11 days of competition in a city still riding the wave of the successful Olympics. French President Emmanuel Macron declared the Games open during a ceremony in a balmy Place de la Concorde in central Paris -- the first time a Paralympic opening ceremony has taken place away from the main stadium.

The 4,400 competitors from 168 delegations paraded into the arena as the sun set with host nation France entering last to a standing ovation from 30,000 spectators packed into the stands around the historic square. The fine weather was in sharp contrast to the heavy rain which fell throughout the Olympics opening ceremony on July 26.

In one of the highlights of the ceremony, French singer Lucky Love, who is missing his left arm below the elbow, performed a moving rendition of his song "My Ability" surrounded by both able-bodied and disabled dancers. International Paralympic Committee (IPC) president Andrew Parsons then told the athletes and spectators he hoped for an "inclusion revolution", before Macron officially declared the Games open.

The Paralympic flag was carried into the square by John McFall, a British Paralympic sprinter who has been selected by the European Space Agency to become the first 'parastronaut'.

French Olympian Florent Manaudou brought the flame into the arena, as the four-day torch relay reached its culmination with five French Paralympians, including 2020 gold medallists Alexis Hanquinquant and Nantenin Keita, eventually lighting the already-iconic cauldron in the Tuileries Gardens.

A total of 18 of the 35 Olympic venues will also be used for the Paralympics, which run until September 8, including the ornate Grand Palais and the Stade de France. Ticket sales have sped up since the Olympics and organisers say more than two million of the 2.5 million available have been sold, with several venues sold out.

<h2>- Ukraine send strong team -</h2>

Riding the wave of its Olympic team's success, host nation France is aiming for a substantial improvement on the 11 golds it won in 2021, which left it 14th in the medals table. Paralympic powerhouse China dominated the last Paralympics in Tokyo with 96 golds and has again sent a strong delegation.

Ukraine, traditionally one of the top medal-winning nations at the Paralympics, has sent a team of 140 athletes to compete in 17 sports despite the challenges they face in preparing as the war against Russian forces rages at home.

A total of 96 athletes from Russia and Belarus will compete under a neutral banner but are barred from the ceremonies because of the invasion of Ukraine.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1/news-italian-gp-embattled-max-verstappen-heads-to-monza-with-f1-dominance-under-dark-clouds-754155">Italian GP: Embattled Max Verstappen heads to Monza with F1 dominance under dark clouds</a>

Every Games produces new stars, and in this edition look to American above-the-knee amputee sprinter/high jumper Ezra Frech to make the headlines. Away from the track, more established names go in search of glory.

Iranian sitting volleyball legend Morteza Mehrzad, who stands 8ft 1in (2.46m) tall, will attempt to take gold again and Beatrice 'Bebe' Vio, the Italian fencer who had to have all four limbs amputated when she contracted meningitis at the age of 11, is aiming for the third Paralympic title of her career.

The Paralympics always have a far wider message than simply sport and Parsons told AFP earlier this year he hopes the Paris edition will restore the issues that disabled people face to the top of the list of global priorities.

The Brazilian believes the Games "will have a big impact in how people with disability are perceived around the world". "This is one of the key expectations we have around Paris 2024; we believe that we need people with disability to be put back on the global agenda," Parsons said. "We do believe people with disability have been left behind. There is very little debate about persons with disability."

The 2024 Paralympics opened in Paris on Wednesday in a colourful and hope-filled ceremony, starting 11 days of competition in a city still riding the wave of the successful Olympics.

The 2024 Paralympics opened in Paris on Wednesday in a colourful and hope-filled ceremony, starting 11 days of competition in a city still riding the wave of the successful Olympics. French President Emmanuel Macron declared the Games open during a ceremony in a balmy Place de la Concorde in central Paris -- the first time a Paralympic opening ceremony has taken place away from the main stadium. The 4,400 competitors from 168 delegations paraded into the arena as the sun set with host nation France entering last to a standing ovation from 30,000 spectators packed into the stands around the historic square. The fine weather was in sharp contrast to the heavy rain which fell throughout the Olympics opening ceremony on July 26. In one of the highlights of the ceremony, French singer Lucky Love, who is missing his left arm below the elbow, performed a moving rendition of his song "My Ability" surrounded by both able-bodied and disabled dancers. International Paralympic Committee (IPC) president Andrew Parsons then told the athletes and spectators he hoped for an "inclusion revolution", before Macron officially declared the Games open. The Paralympic flag was carried into the square by John McFall, a British Paralympic sprinter who has been selected by the European Space Agency to become the first 'parastronaut'. French Olympian Florent Manaudou brought the flame into the arena, as the four-day torch relay reached its culmination with five French Paralympians, including 2020 gold medallists Alexis Hanquinquant and Nantenin Keita, eventually lighting the already-iconic cauldron in the Tuileries Gardens. A total of 18 of the 35 Olympic venues will also be used for the Paralympics, which run until September 8, including the ornate Grand Palais and the Stade de France. Ticket sales have sped up since the Olympics and organisers say more than two million of the 2.5 million available have been sold, with several venues sold out. - Ukraine send strong team - Riding the wave of its Olympic team's success, host nation France is aiming for a substantial improvement on the 11 golds it won in 2021, which left it 14th in the medals table. Paralympic powerhouse China dominated the last Paralympics in Tokyo with 96 golds and has again sent a strong delegation. Ukraine, traditionally one of the top medal-winning nations at the Paralympics, has sent a team of 140 athletes to compete in 17 sports despite the challenges they face in preparing as the war against Russian forces rages at home. A total of 96 athletes from Russia and Belarus will compete under a neutral banner but are barred from the ceremonies because of the invasion of Ukraine. Also read: Italian GP: Embattled Max Verstappen heads to Monza with F1 dominance under dark clouds Every Games produces new stars, and in this edition look to American above-the-knee amputee sprinter/high jumper Ezra Frech to make the headlines. Away from the track, more established names go in search of glory. Iranian sitting volleyball legend Morteza Mehrzad, who stands 8ft 1in (2.46m) tall, will attempt to take gold again and Beatrice 'Bebe' Vio, the Italian fencer who had to have all four limbs amputated when she contracted meningitis at the age of 11, is aiming for the third Paralympic title of her career. The Paralympics always have a far wider message than simply sport and Parsons told AFP earlier this year he hopes the Paris edition will restore the issues that disabled people face to the top of the list of global priorities. The Brazilian believes the Games "will have a big impact in how people with disability are perceived around the world". "This is one of the key expectations we have around Paris 2024; we believe that we need people with disability to be put back on the global agenda," Parsons said. "We do believe people with disability have been left behind. There is very little debate about persons with disability."

Paris Paralympics 2024 kickoffs in blaze of hope and inclusivity

Indian Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi shared a video showcasing his martial arts skills on Thursday (Aug 29), on the occasion of India's National Sports Day.

National Sports Day marks the birthday of Major Dhyan Chand, the Indian hockey legend who brought three Olympic gold medals to the country.

Rahul Gandhi shared the video along with a post on X, saying, "During the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, as we journeyed across thousands of kilometres, we had a daily routine of practicing jiu-jitsu every evening at our campsite."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-slams-pm-modi-for-anti-constitutional-upsc-lateral-entry-move-751139">Also read: Rahul Gandhi slams PM Modi for ‘anti-constitutional’ UPSC lateral entry</a> 
 
Jiu-jitsu is a ground-based martial art originating mainly in Brazil.

The Congress leader is a black belt in Aikido, a Japanese martial art, and a blue belt in jiu-jitsu.&nbsp;

"What began as a simple&nbsp;way to stay fit quickly evolved into a community activity, bringing together fellow yatris and young martial arts students from the towns where we stayed," said Gandhi in the post, referring to his long march across India ahead of this summer's general elections.

Watch the video here:

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During the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, as we journeyed across thousands of kilometers, we had a daily routine of practicing jiu-jitsu every evening at our campsite. What began as a simple way to stay fit quickly evolved into a community activity, bringing together fellow yatris and… <a href="https://t.co/Zvmw78ShDX">pic.twitter.com/Zvmw78ShDX</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1829038570402701566?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"Our goal was to introduce these young minds to the beauty of the ‘Gentle Art’—a harmonious blend of meditation, jiu-jitsu, Aikido, and non-violent conflict resolution techniques," he said about the martial arts session held with a group of children and youngsters.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/freedom-our-biggest-shield-rahul-gandhi-issues-i-day-message-congress-releases-report-card-as-lop-750434">Also Read: ‘Freedom our biggest shield,’ says Rahul Gandhi in I-Day message; Congress Releases LoP's report card</a> 
 
"We aimed to instill in them the value of transforming violence into gentleness, giving them the tools to build a more compassionate and safer society."

"On National Sports Day, I want to share our experience with all of you, hoping to inspire some of you to take up the practice of the ‘Gentle Art’," wrote Gandhi, adding, "P.S.: Bharat Dojo Yatra is coming soon."

Watch: BJP seeks action against Rahul Gandhi, accuses Congress MP of violating house rules

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Dojo refers to a school for training in various self-defence arts such as judo or karate.

During the Bharat Jodo Yatra, Gandhi engaged in various physical activities, from jogging and running to meeting and interacting with wrestlers.

Those with whom he interacted and sparred included some of the wrestlers who were protesting against the Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Singh who had been accused of sexual harassment.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi shared a video showcasing his martial arts skills on Thursday (Aug 29), on the occasion of India's National Sports Day. National Sports Day marks the birthday of Major Dhyan Chand, the Indian hockey legend who brought three Olympic gold medals to the country.

Indian Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi shared a video showcasing his martial arts skills on Thursday (Aug 29), on the occasion of India's National Sports Day. National Sports Day marks the birthday of Major Dhyan Chand, the Indian hockey legend who brought three Olympic gold medals to the country. Rahul Gandhi shared the video along with a post on X, saying, "During the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, as we journeyed across thousands of kilometres, we had a daily routine of practicing jiu-jitsu every evening at our campsite." Also read: Rahul Gandhi slams PM Modi for ‘anti-constitutional’ UPSC lateral entry Jiu-jitsu is a ground-based martial art originating mainly in Brazil. The Congress leader is a black belt in Aikido, a Japanese martial art, and a blue belt in jiu-jitsu. "What began as a simple way to stay fit quickly evolved into a community activity, bringing together fellow yatris and young martial arts students from the towns where we stayed," said Gandhi in the post, referring to his long march across India ahead of this summer's general elections. Watch the video here: During the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, as we journeyed across thousands of kilometers, we had a daily routine of practicing jiu-jitsu every evening at our campsite. What began as a simple way to stay fit quickly evolved into a community activity, bringing together fellow yatris and… pic.twitter.com/Zvmw78ShDX — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 29, 2024 × "Our goal was to introduce these young minds to the beauty of the ‘Gentle Art’—a harmonious blend of meditation, jiu-jitsu, Aikido, and non-violent conflict resolution techniques," he said about the martial arts session held with a group of children and youngsters. Also Read: ‘Freedom our biggest shield,’ says Rahul Gandhi in I-Day message; Congress Releases LoP's report card "We aimed to instill in them the value of transforming violence into gentleness, giving them the tools to build a more compassionate and safer society." "On National Sports Day, I want to share our experience with all of you, hoping to inspire some of you to take up the practice of the ‘Gentle Art’," wrote Gandhi, adding, "P.S.: Bharat Dojo Yatra is coming soon." Watch: BJP seeks action against Rahul Gandhi, accuses Congress MP of violating house rules × Dojo refers to a school for training in various self-defence arts such as judo or karate. During the Bharat Jodo Yatra, Gandhi engaged in various physical activities, from jogging and running to meeting and interacting with wrestlers. Those with whom he interacted and sparred included some of the wrestlers who were protesting against the Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Singh who had been accused of sexual harassment. (With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi showcases his martial arts skills on India's sports day: 'Dojo Yatra coming soon'

As the Paris Olympics is done and the Paralympics is just around the corner....We're seeing the immediate benefits of the games on the French economy.

Olympic boost: Tourism surge fuels Paris economic uplift during Olympics

Matt Richardson is to join the British cycling team just weeks after winning three Olympic medals for Australia.

The 25-year-old won silver in the individual sprint and keirin as well as bronze in the team sprint at the Paris Games.

Richardson was born in England before moving to Western Australia aged nine and is returning to the UK to live permanently having retained dual citizenship.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-aryna-sabalenka-ousts-no-1-ranked-iga-swiatek-to-enter-cincinnati-final-to-face-jessica-pegula-751283">Aryna Sabalenka ousts No. 1 ranked Iga Swiatek to enter Cincinnati final, faces Jessica Pegula</a>

"I have made the decision to pack up my entire life and move halfway across the world to begin the next chapter in my cycling career," said Richardson, whose nationality switch has been approved by cycling's governing body the UCI.

"It is with a sense of excitement and renewal I announce I have joined the Great British cycling team."

"Switching nationality was a difficult decision and not one I took lightly. It was a personal choice, made after careful consideration of my career and future."

Jesse Korf, the executive general manager of performance for AusCycling, said the move had come as a "surprise" and it was "disappointing that Richardson would be leaving a programme that had delivered great personal and national success".

Richardson was a double gold medal winner at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and has five world championship medals, including gold in the 2022 team sprint.

(Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.)

Matt Richardson is to join the British cycling team just weeks after winning three Olympic medals for Australia. The 25-year-old won silver in the individual sprint and keirin as well as bronze in the team sprint at the Paris Games.

Matt Richardson is to join the British cycling team just weeks after winning three Olympic medals for Australia. The 25-year-old won silver in the individual sprint and keirin as well as bronze in the team sprint at the Paris Games. Richardson was born in England before moving to Western Australia aged nine and is returning to the UK to live permanently having retained dual citizenship. Also Read: Aryna Sabalenka ousts No. 1 ranked Iga Swiatek to enter Cincinnati final, faces Jessica Pegula "I have made the decision to pack up my entire life and move halfway across the world to begin the next chapter in my cycling career," said Richardson, whose nationality switch has been approved by cycling's governing body the UCI. "It is with a sense of excitement and renewal I announce I have joined the Great British cycling team." "Switching nationality was a difficult decision and not one I took lightly. It was a personal choice, made after careful consideration of my career and future." Jesse Korf, the executive general manager of performance for AusCycling, said the move had come as a "surprise" and it was "disappointing that Richardson would be leaving a programme that had delivered great personal and national success". Richardson was a double gold medal winner at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and has five world championship medals, including gold in the 2022 team sprint. (Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.)

Matt Richardson, three-time Olympic cycling medalist, switches to Great Britain from Australia

The brand value of Olympic medalists Neeraj Chopra and Manu Bhaker has soared after the Paris Olympics. Can the duo challenge the monopoly of the Indian cricketers?

Brand value of Neeraj Chopra & Manu Bhaker soars

American gymnast Jordan Chiles was stripped of her bronze medal at the Paris Olympics by the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Cas' decision has created a huge controversy and USA Gymnastics vow to continue 'seeking justice' for Chiles. Wion's Esha Hanspal gets you the details.

Paris Olympics: Why was Jordan Chiles stripped of her Olympic medal? | WION Sports

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation at the Red Fort, New Delhi on the occasion of India's 78th Independence Day, on Thursday (Aug 15). During his speech, Modi touched upon various aspects and even congratulated the Indian contingent, with some of them&nbsp;in attendance, for their performance in the just-concluded Paris Olympics 2024 edition. In the showpiece event, India ended with six medals. While PM Modi lauded the overall run and wished the paralympic athletes for the upcoming Paralympic Games, he also revealed that it is India's dream to host the 2036 Olympics.

Talking to the nation, PM Modi said, "Today, we also have with us the youth who made the Indian flag fly high in the Olympics. On behalf of 140 crore countrymen, I congratulate all our athletes and players. In the next few days, a huge contingent of India will leave for Paris to participate in the Paralympics. I extend best wishes to all our Paralympians."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-cas-dismisses-vinesh-phogats-appeal-can-indian-wrestler-challenge-the-decision-all-you-need-to-know-750269">CAS dismisses Vinesh Phogat's appeal: Can Indian wrestler challenge the decision? All you need to know</a>

<h2>'India has the ability to organise big events'</h2>

He further added, "India organised the G20 Summit in India and hosted over 200 events across the nation. It proved that India has the ability to organise big events. As this has been proven, it is now India's dream to host the 2036 Olympics in India, and we are preparing for that."

It will take a huge task for India to host the marquee tournament in 2036. However, the nation's top leaders have time and again pointed out their desire to aim for hosting the Olympics after 12 years.&nbsp;

Talking about Paris 2024, India ended with just six medals -- one less than their overall tally in Tokyo 2020 (their best-ever). Neeraj Chopra earned silver in men's javelin whereas Manu Bhaker-led shooting squad impressed with three medals (bronze), Aman Sehrawat settled for bronze in men's freestyle 57kg event whereas the Harmanpreet Singh-led Indian hockey team also ended with bronze.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation at the Red Fort, New Delhi on the occasion of India's 78th Independence Day, on Thursday (Aug 15). During his speech, Modi touched upon various aspects and even congratulated the Indian contingent, with some of them in attendance, for their performance in the just-concluded Paris Olympics 2024 edition.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation at the Red Fort, New Delhi on the occasion of India's 78th Independence Day, on Thursday (Aug 15). During his speech, Modi touched upon various aspects and even congratulated the Indian contingent, with some of them in attendance, for their performance in the just-concluded Paris Olympics 2024 edition. In the showpiece event, India ended with six medals. While PM Modi lauded the overall run and wished the paralympic athletes for the upcoming Paralympic Games, he also revealed that it is India's dream to host the 2036 Olympics. Talking to the nation, PM Modi said, "Today, we also have with us the youth who made the Indian flag fly high in the Olympics. On behalf of 140 crore countrymen, I congratulate all our athletes and players. In the next few days, a huge contingent of India will leave for Paris to participate in the Paralympics. I extend best wishes to all our Paralympians." Also read: CAS dismisses Vinesh Phogat's appeal: Can Indian wrestler challenge the decision? All you need to know 'India has the ability to organise big events' He further added, "India organised the G20 Summit in India and hosted over 200 events across the nation. It proved that India has the ability to organise big events. As this has been proven, it is now India's dream to host the 2036 Olympics in India, and we are preparing for that." It will take a huge task for India to host the marquee tournament in 2036. However, the nation's top leaders have time and again pointed out their desire to aim for hosting the Olympics after 12 years. Talking about Paris 2024, India ended with just six medals -- one less than their overall tally in Tokyo 2020 (their best-ever). Neeraj Chopra earned silver in men's javelin whereas Manu Bhaker-led shooting squad impressed with three medals (bronze), Aman Sehrawat settled for bronze in men's freestyle 57kg event whereas the Harmanpreet Singh-led Indian hockey team also ended with bronze.

It is India's dream to host 2036 Olympics, says PM Modi during Independence Day speech

Summer Olympics in the city of light and love lived up to its hype. Several records were broken, many new athletes claimed the world's attention and the games had their fair share of controversies. Here's a throwback to the 10 moments from the Paris games.

Paris Olympics 2024: Top 10 moments that stole the show

The Paris Olympics are over with six medals. This was India's third-best outing at the Olympic Games India had also won six medals at the London Olympics but in 2012 the country secured two Silvers and four bronzes to sum up India's performance in the French Capital. WION caught up with Chief-de-Mission Gagan Narang for more.

Olympics 2024: India's Chef-de-mission Gagan Narang speaks to WION on India's Paris Games campaign

Kenya topped the African medal count with 11 medals, which includes 4 gold. Algeria is in second place with 2 gold medals, and South Africa is third with 1 gold medal. Ethiopia completes the top four, also having 1 gold medal but with fewer silver medals. This year, the twelve African countries qualified for the competition performed even better, finishing just one medal ahead: the African continent won a total of 38 medals at the Paris 2024 Olympics. We highlight some of the competitors who left the African stamp in Paris.

Africans who made an impact at the Olympics

The Olympic flag arrived in Los Angeles, where it will be flown in 2028. Los Angeles is going to host the next Summer Games.

Olympic flag arrives in Los Angeles, host city for the 2028 Games

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