Beijing, China, March 14, 2022: The President of the International Paralympic Committee, Andrew Parsons, hailed the emergence of China as a “Paralympic winter sports powerhouse” and praised the “awesome organisation” as Beijing 2022 came to a spectacular end with a stunning closing ceremony on Sunday, March 13.
“For sure, China has set a benchmark for all future winter Games. For certain, China is now a Paralympic winter sports powerhouse,” Parsons summed up as the curtain fell in the beautiful setting of the iconic Bird’s Nest Stadium.
Hosts China finished top of the medal standings with an all-time best record of 61 medals – 18 golds, 20 silver and 23 bronze. Ukraine finished second with 29 medals (11 golds, 10 silver and eight bronze) and Canada third with 25 medals (8-6-11).
From what was just one medal from PyeongChang 2018, China’s four-year journey to emerge at the top team is by no means a small achievement.
The triumph of China will clearly change the dynamics of Para sport and make it intensely competitive. Parsons called it a “watershed” moment for the Paralympic Movement.
“After three successive Games in Asia, the Paralympic Movement is bigger and stronger. Our vision for inclusion through Para sport is more meaningful and more needed than ever before. If Beijing 2008 started a new chapter of growth for the Paralympic Movement, then Beijing 2022 has marked a new dawn for the Paralympic Winter Games.
“You promised simple, safe and splendid. You delivered stunning, secure and spectacular. Awesome organisation, vibrant venues and
sensational sport – the hallmarks of great Games here in Beijing,” Parsons added.
From among the Asian NOCs taking part, Japan and Kazakhstan also figured on the medal standings in 9th and 17th place respectively.
Japan won a total of seven medals, including four golds, while Kazakhstan won a bronze medal.
The next Paralympic Winter Games will take place in Milano and Cortina, Italy in 2026.
