Grassroots sport is about much more than producing champions

While grassroots clubs can develop future Olympians and Paralympians, their role goes far beyond talent development. Local sport can break down barriers and build bridges across social boundaries. Grassroots sport supports key values such as human rights, democracy, solidarity, social inclusion, gender equality, youth development and education through sport.

Regular physical activity and socialisation through sport can also improve mental health and overall wellbeing. Research shows that physical activity reduces the risk of depression, anxiety, cognitive decline, and other mental health challenges. At the community level, grassroots clubs strengthen social cohesion, support intergenerational exchange, and help young people develop skills that can later support employment and education. Importantly, they provide spaces where young people are genuinely willing to spend time — which is increasingly valuable in today’s society.

Because grassroots sport plays such a vital role, major sport events like the Olympic and Paralympic Games should act as catalysts for long-term positive impact. Ideally, they should leave a legacy that strengthens local clubs, improves infrastructure, and increases participation through solidarity mechanisms and sustained investment.

There are positive signs that the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games increased interest and participation among people with disabilities. In France, data reported after the Games suggests that sport licences increased across several federations, and handisport licences rose sharply. For example, one national report indicated that federations winning at least one gold medal saw an average increase of 8%, while handisport licences increased by around 21% (Marescaux, 2025).

At the international level, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) published independent post-Games research showing a major shift in attitudes toward disability. The study found that nearly three in four people (73%) believed the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games positively changed their attitudes toward persons with disabilities (International Paralympic Committee, 2025). This supports the idea that Paralympic Games can generate broader cultural and social change — even if participation outcomes require more time and investment.