IPC Seeks Broadcasters for LA28 Paralympic Games Media Rights

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has announced a significant Request for Information (RFI) for broadcasters and agencies interested in acquiring European media rights for the LA28 Paralympic Games, scheduled for August 15-27, 2028. This RFI marks a strategic initiative aimed at broadening the reach and visibility of the Paralympic Games, which are now recognized as one of the largest sporting events globally, ranked third in terms of ticket sales. With the LA28 initiative, the IPC is positioning itself to capitalize on the growing global interest and popularity of Paralympic sports, especially following the unprecedented success of the Paris 2024 Games.

The media rights available through this RFI encompass multiple platforms, including Free to Air, Pay TV, and various digital formats such as streaming and audio. Broadcasters will have access to approximately 1,400 hours of live coverage, spanning 14 days and covering 23 sports, along with both the Opening and Closing Ceremonies. This expansive media offering not only enhances the visibility of the Paralympic athletes but also creates substantial revenue opportunities for participating media companies who can effectively demonstrate their capabilities in delivering coverage across these varied platforms.

The procurement timeline for this opportunity is relatively tight, with interested parties required to submit their responses by October 9, 2026. This timeframe allows the IPC and the LA28 Organising Committee to carefully assess the proposals and select partners who align with their vision for maximizing the Games' commercial value. The IPC’s focus on diverse media delivery methods, including digital and audio formats, underscores the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting and the increasing importance of adaptable, consumer-oriented content strategies.

As the IPC looks to harness a combination of traditional broadcasting and modern digital dissemination, procurement professionals should note the importance of aligning proposals with regional broadcasting regulations and rights management. Companies seeking to engage with this opportunity will need to provide detailed submissions that clearly showcase expertise in TV, streaming, digital offerings, and comprehensive knowledge of the strategic alignment necessary to meet the IPC’s goals of broad audience engagement.

John Lisko, Managing Director of Global Media Rights at the IPC, articulated the strategic intent behind this RFI: "Through this RFI for the LA28 Paralympic Games, we are keen to hear from all broadcasters and agencies for TV, streaming, digital, social, and audio platforms who understand the value of this event which, in terms of ticket sales, is now the third biggest sport event on earth." This statement emphasizes not only the magnitude of the event but also the IPC's ambition to fully capitalize on the growing awareness and interest surrounding the Paralympic Games.

In summary, the RFI represents an essential step for the IPC as it seeks to expand the audience for the LA28 Paralympic Games while ensuring the event is positioned for commercial success. This offers a unique procurement opportunity for media companies focusing on innovative and engaging ways to broadcast this landmark sporting occasion to a global audience.

• IPC invites broadcasters to bid for European media rights for LA28 Paralympic Games.
• Proposal submissions are due on October 9, 2026.
• 1,400 hours of live coverage will be available, covering 23 sports.
• LA28 is positioned as the third largest sporting event globally by ticket sales.
• Olympic and Men’s FIFA World Cup enjoy slightly higher awareness than the Paralympics.
• IPC aims to leverage the momentum from Paris 2024's success to enhance visibility for LA28.
• Companies must demonstrate comprehensive expertise across various media platforms.