All eyes are on Dubai Club for People of Determination Ground, where the Dubai 2026 World Para Athletics Grand Prix is set to ignite from February 10-13. Approximately 500 para athletes representing 56 countries will compete fiercely to meet qualification thresholds for the season’s blockbuster competitions.
India’s response is bold: a 50-member powerhouse including Paris 2024 victors Sumit Antil (javelin F64) and Navdeep (F41), two-medal hero Preeti Pal, and 200m T12 Paralympic bronzewinner Simran. This squad is loaded with firepower for podium pursuits.
International intrigue abounds with Belgium’s Maxime Carabin, Paris Paralympic champ and five-time world ruler. Canada’s Austin Smeenk brings Paris pedigree – 800m T34 gold, 100m T34 bronze – ensuring must-see action.
UAE fields 65 athletes, led trackside by New Delhi Worlds bronze medalist Mohammad Yousuf Othman. The women’s shot put brigade includes Rio medalist Sara Aljenabi (F33), Noura AlKetebi (F32), and Kobe 2024 world champ Mariam AlJeyoudi (F40).
Othman exuded confidence: ‘New season training exceeded expectations. I’ll deliver at this home Grand Prix and all year, with Asian Para Games in my sights.’
Chair Thani Juma Beredgad affirmed: ‘From 2009 onwards, Fazaa has defined excellence. Building on Dubai 2025 Asian Youth Para Games success, we’re duty-bound to outperform.’
Majid Al-Osaimi, Fazaa Championships director, elaborated: ‘Sustained dedication has enabled people of determination to thrive, blend into communities, and amplify life-changing sports narratives.’
As whistles blow, the Grand Prix stands as a testament to human spirit, blending competition with inspiration in a spectacle that will captivate para sports fans globally.