The partnership between the Austrian Paralympic Committee and Austrian Lotteries celebrates its 25th anniversary

Austrian Lotteries warmly congratulates the Austrian Paralympic Committee (ÖPC) on its 25th anniversary.

25 years of ÖPC means 25 years of top-level athletic performances, 25 years of enthusiasm, 25 years of inclusion and 25 years of partnering with Austrian Lotteries. When we first entered into this cooperation, it was clear that this was much more than a classic sponsorship situation: it must be taken as a given that athletes with physical disabilities can enjoy uncomplicated access to competitive sports and find perfect training conditions at their disposal – and on the other hand it’s about the public’s recognition of achievements in sports for people with disabilities and about the attendant awareness-raising. 

Plenty was achieved during these years: Since 2001, the Paralympics have always taken place two weeks after the conclusion of the Olympic Games, and at the same venue. Since 2001, the disabled athletes of the year have been honoured at the Lotterien Sporthilfe Gala. As of 2004, both of Austria's Olympic and Paralympic Team have been clad in the same uniforms. Since 2012, athletes with disabilities have received equal support from Austrian Sports Aid, which is also a partner of Austrian Lotteries.

The result of these efforts is quite impressive: Since the first Paralympics in Rome in 1960, Austria's athletes have brought home an incredible 716 medals at the Summer and Winter Games. The 345 medals at Winter Games represent a Paralympic record.
Austrian Lotteries sincerely congratulates all that has been achieved in these 25 years and, as a proud partner, wishes the Paralympics Team all the best for the upcoming 2024 Games in Paris.