Gymnastik- och idrottshögskolan, GIH

This article examines the normative foundation of Paralympic classification, focusing on three interconnected ideals articulated in the International Paralympic Committee's Classification Code: fairness, meaningful competition, and sporting excellence. We develop a specific fair equality of opportunity principle for Paralympic sport (FEOPps), providing a philosophically grounded ethical framework for evaluating classification systems. The principle requires that inequalities between competitors in sport-specific activity limitations resulting from an eligible impairment be eliminated where pragmatically possible and otherwise minimized. This applies when inequalities significantly and systematically impact performance and remain beyond competitors' influence and control. Building on Rawlsian contractualism and Loland's fair play theory, we argue that fairness takes lexical priority over other considerations, establishing deontological constraints within which meaningful competition and sporting excellence can be pursued. Meaningful competition occurs when athletes with evenly matched performance potential engage in fair contests with uncertainty of outcome, thereby enabling the display of authentic sporting excellence achieved through talent and effort. This neo-Aristotelian interpretation connects Paralympic sport to broader ideals of human flourishing through meritocratic practices that cultivate virtue and excellence. Applying our ethical framework to current procedures, we show how FEOPps provides both philosophical justification and practical guidance for Paralympic classification systems while highlighting the need for continued normative reflection on the fundamental nature and purposes of Paralympic sport.

Objectives Para athletes may face unique challenges in the anti-doping system, including issues of privacy, implementation, comprehension and accessibility. While previous studies have examined non-disabled athletes’ views, little is known about how international elite Para athletes perceive anti-doping procedures. The aim of this study was to increase the understanding of elite Para athletes’ experiences and perceptions of anti-doping procedures.

Methods Using a cross-sectional observational study design, data were collected via an online questionnaire distributed during major international Para competitions. A total of 109 elite Para athletes from 25 countries, representing three impairment groups—physical, visual and intellectual impairments—participated in the study. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and non-parametric analytical tests.

Results Among elite Para athletes, 27% had never received anti-doping education during their sports careers, while those who had received such education felt more confident in staying updated on the prohibited list. Over half had never undergone doping testing, and over 70% had never submitted whereabouts information. Most athletes who had been tested found the procedure respectful and adapted to their impairment. However, 25% could not provide a urine sample without assistance from a doping control officer or another person. Furthermore, 40% of those who had submitted whereabouts information said updating it reduced their enjoyment of being an elite athlete.

Conclusions This study shows that many Para athletes, even at the elite level, have limited experience with key anti-doping procedures, highlighting a need for more inclusive, prioritised and accessible anti-doping efforts tailored to the needs of Para athletes.