Astronaut John McFall Carries Paralympic Flag at Opening Ceremony

Astronaut John McFall returned to the Paralympics (28 August) to carry the games’ official flag during the opening ceremony in Paris.

McFall, who won a bronze medal in the men’s T42 100-meter race at the 2008 Paralympic Games in Beijing, has since embarked on a new career that involves medical expertise and working as a reserve astronaut with the European Space Agency (ESA).

“I am truly honoured to be standing here today, as a Paralympian and a member of the astronaut reserve with a physical disability,” McFall said in a statement. “I like to think that my presence at this year’s ceremony, in my new role at the European Space Agency, attests to and embodies the success, reach and legacy of the Paralympic movement.”

Representing the Paralympic Community

McFall carried the Paralympic flag alongside French sailor and Paralympic champion Damien Seguin. According to a statement, both were selected to carry the flag to represent the entire Paralympic community rather than any specific country.

Selected by ESA in 2022, McFall has been involved in several projects, including the “Fly!” study. This research explored the feasibility of sending an astronaut with a lower leg prosthesis, like McFall, to the International Space Station (ISS). The study concluded that no major barriers existed to such a mission, although it does not guarantee McFall a flight to space.

A Potential Future in Space

While awaiting a potential call-up for a future mission, McFall continues his work as a surgeon and has completed basic familiarization training as a reserve astronaut. His participation in the Paralympics and ongoing work with ESA exemplify his commitment to both sport and science.