'A historic milestone': Canadian Paralympic medallists receive $535K in bonuses

For the first time ever, the Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC) has financially rewarded athletes for their podium finishes at a Paralympic Games.

In total, $535,000 was awarded through the inaugural distribution of the Paralympic Performance Recognition program following the Paris 2024 event.

“This is a historic milestone for the Paralympic movement in Canada and we are so proud to be able to reward Canada’s Paris 2024 medallists with this financial recognition,” said Marc-André Fabien, president of the CPC.

“Canadian Paralympians ignited the world stage in Paris with so many incredible performances, uniting people across the country as we all cheered them on. Paralympic Performance Recognition is an acknowledgment of the commitment and hard work that went into their achievements as well as a celebration of equity and inclusion, which helps fuel athletic excellence.”

The Canadian Paralympic Team won 29 medals in Paris, and athletes received $20,000 per gold medal, $15,000 per silver, and $10,000 per bronze, the same as their Olympic counterparts.

“Paralympic Performance Recognition is a game-changing initiative for Paralympic sport in Canada and PFC (Paralympic Foundation of Canada) is proud to be funding it,” said Dean Brokop, executive director of the PFC.

“This program reflects the growth of Paralympic sport in Canada and the importance of supporting athletes at all levels, so the next generation of para-athletes can also envision themselves on the podium at the Paralympic Games.”

In addition to the Paralympic Performance Recognition program, medallists were also given a $5,000 grant per medal. The grant will continue for the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games.

“I am so honoured to be part of the first Paralympic Games where Paralympians were awarded medal bonuses just like our incredible Canadian Olympic teammates,” said Brianna Hennessy, Paris 2024 para canoe silver medallist.

“What a monumental step forward towards inclusivity and equality in sport in Canada. It’s a phenomenal incentive and feeling that our country also values the sacrifices and adversities that we Paralympians make and overcome to wear our maple leaf proudly on the world stage.”