Australia emerged as the champions of the International Wheelchair Rugby Cup 2023 (IWRC) held in Paris, the undisputed global capital of rugby. In a breathtaking final match, Australia secured victory by defeating Canada with a final score of 53-48. Japan claimed the bronze after a successful match against the host team, France.

Simultaneously, in the Rugby World Cup, being held in the same city of Paris, Australia faced an unprecedented elimination due to their defeat against Wales. The final on Saturday will feature New Zealand and South Africa competing for the gold, while England and Argentina will vie for the second position on Friday.

Nonetheless, what truly stands out in this competition is the global example set by the rugby world: Inclusivity.

THE ORIGIN OF A THRIVING PARTNERSHIP The success of the event is deeply rooted in a remarkable partnership between World Rugby and Wheelchair Rugby.

According to Richard Allcroft, President of World Wheelchair Rugby (WWR), "It's a crucial aspect of our partnership between para sports and able-bodied sports on a global scale. Wheelchair rugby's inclusion in the spectacular Rugby World Cup, which captures the world's attention, has been a vision I've had for a decade. Ever since we hosted an event within the Rugby World Cup in the UK in 2015. In 2019, we replicated the concept in Japan” he remembered. “When I assumed my role in 2018, I aimed to unite these two International Federations to drive this combined event forward."

SHIFTING PERCEPTIONS THROUGH SPORT Wheelchair Rugby aims to challenge and reshape society's perceptions of individuals with disabilities. This sport provides a powerful platform for this transformation. It's not just about fierce competition; it's also about the inspiring stories behind these athletes. They are here to win, compete at the highest level, and demonstrate that their abilities far outweigh their disabilities. "Sport is a powerful tool to shift perceptions and challenge stereotypes about disabilities”, Allcroft noted.
 

FRANCE AND THE PARALYMPICS GAMES 2024 The French team has made significant progress in recent years and is now among the top three sellers of Paralympic tickets. This newfound prominence instils confidence in their ability to perform exceptionally well in the upcoming Paralympic Games. Ryadh Sallem, from team France, emphasized, "The French and the Parisians will be there in the Power Base. Wheelchair rugby is the most exciting sport in the Paralympic Games."

THE POWER OF INCLUSION Wheelchair rugby embodies the essence of inclusion. It offers athletes, regardless of their physical abilities, an opportunity to be part of a community that values their dedication, perseverance, and skill. "Our athletes are here to win, to compete, and to demonstrate their capabilities. This is not just a sport for people with disabilities; it's a sport of power, passion, and inclusion”, Sallem stressed. 

A GLIMPSE INTO THE FUTURE "We've seen significant interest in the event this week," explained the WWR President. The impact of this historic international event remains to be seen, but early indications are promising. The interest and engagement during the recent competition were significant, and there's every reason to believe that the Paralympic Games, where wheelchair rugby is set to shine, will draw a global audience.