The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) announced the formation of a nine-member refugee team for the upcoming Paris Games, highlighting athletes who have overcome significant challenges to compete at the highest level of Paralympic sports.

Led by IPC President Andrew Parsons, the team consists of eight athletes and one guide runner participating in disciplines such as taekwondo, athletics, triathlon, powerlifting, table tennis, and wheelchair fencing. Parsons emphasized the team's resilience, noting that these athletes have persevered despite facing dire circumstances as refugees, providing hope to millions worldwide.

Among the notable athletes is Ibrahim Al Hussein, competing in his third Paralympics but transitioning from swimming to triathlon. Al Hussein, originally from Syria, highlighted the role of sports in his integration into society since arriving in Greece ten years ago.

Zakia Khudadadi and Hadi Hassanzada, both from Afghanistan, will participate in parataekwondo. Khudadadi, who represented Afghanistan in Tokyo 2021 after evacuating due to Taliban control, exemplifies resilience amid adversity. Hassanzada, born in Afghanistan and raised in Iran, fled back to Turkey amidst conflict, showcasing the determination of refugees to succeed.

Guillaume Junior Atanganga, sprinting for Cameroon in Tokyo before settling in Britain, faces challenges in training due to injuries to his guide, Donard Ndim Nyamjua. Despite setbacks, Atanganga is determined to excel in the 100m and 400m T11 events in Paris.

Other members include shot putter Salman Abbariki, competing in his second Paralympics, and Hadi Darvish, a powerlifter originally from Iran who found success in Germany despite initial hardships.

Completing the team are Sayed Amir Hossein Pour, a table tennis player from Iran, and Amelio Castro Grueso, a wheelchair fencer.

Nyasha Mharakurwa, the team's chef de mission, expressed admiration for the athletes' resilience, stating they not only represent forcibly displaced individuals but also the global community of persons with disabilities.

The Paralympic Games will commence with the Opening Ceremony on August 28, taking place along the iconic Champs-Elysees and Place de la Concorde in Paris.