World Sailing has submitted a formal proposal to the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) seeking the return of Para Sailing to the Paralympic Games at Brisbane 2032.

The submission outlines what World Sailing describes as a significantly strengthened sport, following major growth since its unsuccessful bid for Paris 2024.

Para Sailing now has 39 competing nations across all five IPC regions, up from 28 in 2022.

The global events calendar has nearly doubled, increasing from 57 events in 2022 to 111 in 2025.

More than 400 Para sailors are now competing regularly worldwide, representing an increase of over 200 per cent.

World Sailing’s Inclusive Development Programme has supported 256 athletes and coaches from 40 nations since 2023.

A new annual World Sailing Inclusion Championships was launched in 2025 for sailors with disabilities.

Female participation in the Inclusive Development Programme has risen to 34 per cent, according to World Sailing figures.

A dedicated Sub-Committee on Para Classification has also been established to align the sport with updated IPC classification regulations.

World Sailing President Quanhai Li said the proposal responds directly to previous IPC feedback.
“The sport is now in its strongest position ever,” he said.

Li added: “More nations and more athletes are competing, and our investment in development, accessibility, and inclusion continues to grow.”

World Sailing CEO David Graham said Para Sailing offers a distinctive sporting environment.
“Para athletes compete in the heart of nature on the ocean,” he said.

Graham said Para Sailing integrates into existing Olympic sailing operations and requires no major new infrastructure.

“It is a low-risk, efficient, and high-impact model that enhances the Games without adding operational burden,” he said.

Para Sailing last appeared at the Paralympic Games at Rio 2016.