From the first minutes of competition on day one and today again, thousands of spectators crowded at the stadium gates to attend a very high-level event and all were ready to encourage their favourite athletes.

In the festive hubbub that animates the stands, the largest contingent is logically that of the French supporters whose blue-white-red tide is impressive. There are not only French sports fans though. For example, there are the Spanish neighbours but also the more distant Uzbeks, who are there to make their voices heard.

The athletes feel it well and all, without exception, can fully experience their Paralympic Games and benefit from a craze never seen before. This warms the heart and contributes greatly to the performances of each and every one.

Olivier Desroses is one of the referees who officiates during this Paralympic week. He is therefore often at the centre of the tatami. “On the entire IBSA circuit, we have never had a fifth of the public who are present here in Paris. So yes, the majority of the people present are French, but they encourage everyone. It is beautiful to see and it is really nice to feel. It is real recognition for the athletes; all this is for them. I think everyone is happy and appreciates it.”

It is clear that the Paris 2024 Games will mark a turning point in the development of para-judo and this turning point will be a direct consequence of the popular fervour of judo in Paris.