#GenderEqualOlympics: Celebrating full gender parity on the field of play at Paris 2024

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is celebrating a monumental achievement set to be reached at the upcoming Olympic Games Paris 2024: The IOC has distributed quota places equally to female and male athletes – 50:50. For the first time in Olympic history, there will be full gender parity on the field of play.

Over the years, the IOC's commitment to gender equality has resulted in a steady increase in the number of female athletes participating in the Olympic Games. From a mere 2.2 percent in the inaugural women's participation in Paris 1900, the figures have progressively risen, notably reaching 48 percent in Tokyo 2020.

This achievement of gender parity required considerable strength, perseverance, leadership, and courage. President Bach expressed anticipation for Paris 2024, highlighting it as a testament to the monumental efforts made by the Olympic Movement and pioneering women athletes, aiming to contribute to a more gender-equal world.

Collaboration with International Sports Federations (IFs) and National Olympic Committees (NOCs) has facilitated equal opportunities for both female and male athletes in the Olympic Games. Notable initiatives include a more balanced sports program and an equitable distribution of medal events. In Paris 2024, more than half of all medal events will be open to female athletes.

Additionally, efforts have been made to enhance the visibility of women in the Games. Since Tokyo 2020, each team has been encouraged to have one female and one male athlete jointly carry their flag at the Opening Ceremony. The IOC has also urged NOCs to include at least one female and one male athlete in their delegation.

Ensuring fairness in scheduling women's and men's sports events throughout the Olympic Games has been a priority. Notably, in Paris 2024, the women's marathon will conclude the athletics program, symbolizing a shift towards highlighting the performances of female athletes.

While Paris 2024 represents a significant milestone, the IOC acknowledges that there is more work to be done in closing the gender gap in sports. Various IOC-led programs are addressing this issue, from grassroots access for girls to leadership opportunities for women in sports. The IOC remains committed to advancing gender equality, both within the Olympic Movement and beyond, using the power of sport to foster a more inclusive society. For further information on the IOC's ongoing efforts to promote gender equality, interested individuals are encouraged to explore available resources.

Learn more about the IOC’s ongoing action to advance gender equality both on and off the field of play.