U.S. Paralympics Track & Field Program to Become Part of USA Track & Field

USA Track & Field is bringing the U.S. Paralympics Track & Field program in-house beginning January 1 as part of a partnership that will unite all of its athletes under one roof, the national governing body and United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee announced Wednesday.

American track and field athletes captured 34 medals, including 14 gold, at the 2024 Olympic Summer Games in Paris while U.S. track and field Paralympians hauled in 38 medals and 10 gold at the Paralympic Summer Games. USA Track & Field, the national governing body for track and field, cross country and road running, will now provide a singular home for elite U.S. track and field athletes.

“This is an incredible moment for our sport,” said Max Siegel, USATF chief executive officer. “USATF has a strong commitment to providing inclusive and comprehensive support and by uniting our Olympic and Paralympic programs, we are setting the standard for what an integrated sports program can achieve. We believe the benefits of being one team will drive success on and off the field of play.”

Beginning in January 2025, USATF will absorb the U.S. Paralympic National Team athletes, creating a streamlined experience from the track to the training facility, Para athletes will now have access to the same level of support and attention as other elite U.S. track and field athletes.

“This change means so much to me and to the entire Para track and field community,” said Hunter Woodhall, a three-time Paralympian and Paralympic gold medalist. “Becoming part of one team with USATF is the right next step for Paralympic track and field and for Team USA and it’s incredibly exciting to see the investment, dedication and future we’re building together.”

USATF becomes the 17th national governing body to house its Paralympic counterpart.

“With the USOPC and USATF joining forces for our Paralympics Track & Field National Team and development programs, we are setting the stage for unprecedented opportunity and development,” said Sarah Hirshland, USOPC chief executive officer. “We’ve committed to working toward this model of integration, because we know it will allow Para athletes to fully access a powerhouse of resources, support and training as they pursue excellence and represent Team USA.”