It will debut at Paris 2024
Competitive breakdancing has been confirmed as an Olympic sport ready to debut at the Paris games in 2024.
Two years ago, breakdancing was proposed as a potential sport for future Olympic events – and now the plans have been confirmed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
The IOC are looking to broaden the appeal of the Olympic Games to a much younger audience, which is why it has turned to sports such as breakdancing to hopefully pave the way.
Skateboarding, sport climbing and surfing have also been added to the IOC’s new list of sports, but these events will debut at next year’s delayed Tokyo games – not 2024.
When breakdancing does debut at Paris 2024, it will be referred to as ‘Breaking’.
Breaking was initially trialled as a competitive sport at the 2018 Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Competitors typically face off in one-on-one dance battles. There were a total of three events, involving male teams, female teams and a mixed competition.
At Paris 2024, breaking is set to comprise 16 athletes, each competing in the men’s and women’s medal event.
In a previous statement, Tony Estanguet – President of the Paris 2024 bid – said:
“I am delighted with the IOC Session’s vote in favour of our proposal to include breaking, sport climbing, skateboarding and surfing on the Paris 2024 Olympic Games programme.
“Our aim from the outset has been to highlight what has been the strength of the Games for 32 Olympiads now – the diversity of the sports and the excitement that comes with performance – while also taking the opportunity afforded by the IOC to enhance the programme and offer a new dimension.”
IOC President Thomas Bach had previously spoken of the need to include sports that were aimed at a younger demographic.
A statement on the Olympic Games’ official website reads: “The proposed sports are in line with these principles and enhance Paris 2024’s overall dynamic Games concept, which focuses on inclusivity, inspiring a new audience and hosting socially responsible Games.”
