The Sunshine Coast will test-run its Brisbane 2032 para-cycling infrastructure by hosting the 2028 Para-cycling Road World Championships.
The Championships, which will take place in March, will bring the best of the para-cycling world to the region in a key selection event for the Los Angeles Games later in that year.
In the wake of the announcement this week, AusCycling CEO Marne Fechner said the Championships would feature the team relay, individual time trial and road races.
Ms Fechner said the event was expected to bring over 500 international athletes and support staff to the region.
“(It) will be the key selection event for nations in their qualification for the 2028 Paralympic Games and a key test event towards the 2032 Paralympic Games with the Para-cycling road events to be held in the Sunshine Coast,” she said.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said it was exciting to have secured the first internationally significant para event for Queensland ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, demonstrating the area’s co-hosting capabilities.
“We expect the event will attract substantial national and international attention with competitors from more than 45 countries,’’ Mayor Natoli said.
“It will also provide an extended broadcast reach, showcasing a course that would take advantage of our region’s natural assets ranging from the coast to hinterland.
“This is a wonderful opportunity to help promote the region as an international event destination and raise awareness that we are ready to host large-scale global events in the lead up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“We also feel strongly that showcasing para-sport will promote inclusion and diversity among the community while adding to the region’s growing reputation as an accessible tourism destination.”
