The lesson of the Games: sport is a right. The Municipality must take back the facilities
The president of the municipal Olympic and Paralympic Commission, Alessandro Giungi, discusses concerns regarding the lower participation of the Paralympics compared to the Olympics, emphasizing the need for equal representation and support for both events.
Alessandro Giungi, the president of the municipal Olympic and Paralympic Commission, addresses the disparity in attendance and participation between the upcoming Paralympic Games and the recently held Olympic Games. He indicates that the number of athletes and teams competing in the Paralympics is significantly lower, which in turn affects the fan engagement and overall visibility of the event. Giungi points out that the Paralympic flame's journey in Milan was almost nonexistent, lacking the fanfare and public engagement that characterized the Olympic flame's visit to the city.
Giungi argues that the ceremonial aspects, such as the torch relay, should be treated equally for both events, as the Olympic torch's arrival generated considerable excitement among locals. He recalls the enthusiasm from the Milanese community during the Olympics and suggests that the same effort should be made to promote the Paralympics. This recognition of the public reception is crucial for fostering a more inclusive culture around sports, especially for events that may not receive the same media attention.
Moreover, Giungi highlights a movement advocating for the two sets of games to be hosted together, potentially increasing awareness and participation for both. This call for a more unified approach underscores the ongoing challenges in the sporting world regarding visibility and rights for athletes with disabilities, urging local authorities to enhance their support and infrastructure for sports as an essential right for everyone.