Abstract

Following the commercialization of the Olympic movement at the Los Angeles 1984 Games, and Seoul 1988 being the first city for over twenty years to host both the Olympic and Paralympic Games in the same location, there has been an increasing variety of literature that explores how the Olympic/Paralympic Games can be inclusive within the context of disability. In this article, we analyze scholarly perspectives regarding accessibility and provisions for persons with disabilities (PWDs) at the Olympic and Paralympic Games from Sydney 2000 to London 2012. We then explore the concept of legacy linked to the Olympic/Paralympic movement from London 2012 to Beijing 2022, before considering some areas of future research that are required in terms of accessibility and PWDs provisions at future Games. While a host of literature has addressed inclusivity and improving facilities both within venues and in the city or region hosting the Games, we assert that more PWD spectators (and athletes), particularly at the Olympic Games, need to be heard to ensure they have a positive experience pre, during and post the Games. This could lead to improvements for PWDs at future Games including Paris 2024, Milano-Cortina d’Ampezzo 2026, LA 2028, and beyond.