British Athletics Announces 41 Athletes for 2025-26 Paralympic World Class Programme
British Athletics has unveiled its 41-athlete Paralympic World Class Programme (WCP) for the 2025-26 cycle, a crucial initiative backed by UK Sport’s National Lottery funding designed to propel athletes toward peak performance at major international competitions, including the Paralympic Games. The program’s tiered structure provides vital support as Great Britain aims to build on its recent success in para athletics.
Funding and Tier Structure
The WCP operates on a three-tier funding model, with the podium level representing the highest level of support. Three athletes – Melanie Woods, Lydia Church, and Nathan Maguire – have been elevated to this prestigious tier. This investment underscores the commitment to providing elite athletes with the resources they need to excel.
Rising Stars and Championship Success
Melanie Woods, a 31-year-old from Scotland, earned her first world medals this year at the World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi, securing bronze in both the women’s T54 1500m and T54 800m. Lydia Church and Nathan Maguire also contributed to the medal haul, claiming bronze in the women’s F12 shot put and men’s T54 1500m, respectively.
The program also recognizes established champions. Five reigning world champions – Hannah Cockroft, Aled Sion Davies, Daniel Pembroke, Sabrina Fortune, and Victoria Levitt – have been included. Levitt, the women’s T44 100m gold medallist, is positioned within the third-tier Paralympic confirmation list.
Notable Inclusions and Omissions
While celebrating successes, the program also reflects the realities of athletic competition. Unfortunately, Owen Miller, the 2020 Paralympic champion in the men’s T20 1500m, was not included in this year’s program due to an injury that prevented him from defending his title at the 2024 Games.
However, several athletes are experiencing upward mobility within the program. Didi Okoh, a bronze medallist in the women’s T63 100m at both the World Championships and the 2024 Paralympics, has been promoted to the second-tier podium potential list. Additionally, Bree Cronin, Dan Gladman, Bebe Jackson, Jade Hall, Finlay Menzies, and Arthur Milles have been added to the Paralympic confirmation level.
Looking Ahead to LA 2028
Katie Jones, head of UK Athletics’ (UKA) Paralympic programme, emphasized the program’s long-term vision. “This will help continue building momentum as we work towards the LA 2028 Paralympic Games and beyond,” she stated.
Great Britain demonstrated its strength at the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships, finishing seventh overall with a total of seven gold, five silver, and 13 bronze medals. This latest WCP announcement signals a continued dedication to fostering athletic excellence and achieving success on the world stage.
