In what has been heralded as "a major step in supporting Paralympic sport throughout the world," BP will build upon the partnerships they already have with athletes and various National Paralympic Committee's (NPC's).

BP is already continuing its role as the "official top tier partner" for the British Paralympic Association through to the end of 2016, as well as for six British athletes, including 200 metre T42 champion Richard Whitehead, who they supported at London 2012. 

Last month they also unveiled support for the new Paralympic, as well as the Olympic, Training Centre in the United States, while support has also been provided to NPC's in Angola, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey and Trinidad & Tobago.

A recent BP advert featuring US Para-archer Matt Stutzman - a silver medal winner at the London 2012 Games ©BP





Iain Conn, BP group managing director and chief executive, claimed the new partnership with the IPC will build on their previous involvement.

"London 2012 has been recognised as the most successful Paralympic Games ever and we are pleased to continue to support a Movement that enables Paralympic athletes to inspire and excite the world through sporting excellence," he said.

Securing commercial deals and raising the international profile of Parasport athletes was presented as a major aim for the IPC at their General Assembly in Athens last month.

Today's announcement is therefore a boost for the organisation's President Sir Philip Craven as he begins a fourth and final term in office.

"We are delighted to announce this partnership with BP, one of the world's biggest companies, who showed significant support for the whole Paralympic Movement in the lead-up to London 2012," Sir Philip said. 

"Following the success of London it is fantastic news that they want to continue to build on the momentum generated by the best ever Paralympic Games between now and 2016.

"What is so great about this partnership is that BP does not just want to work with the IPC but also wants to work with a number of the countries in which they operate to help raise awareness of the Paralympic Movement and its athletes."

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