Paralympics: Brazil set for opening ceremony

The Rio Paralympics will get under way later with a colourful opening ceremony watched by millions worldwide, following troubled preparations.

 

The build-up featured low ticket sales, a funding crisis, Russia's ban and criticism of athlete classifications, reports BBC.

 

But the focus will be on the Maracana Stadium from 22:15 BST, when thousands of spectators will experience the parade of more than 4,300 athletes.

 

Equestrian rider Lee Pearson will be flagbearer for GB's 264 athletes.

 

Most of the 4,300 athletes at the 2016 Paralympics will take part in a parade through the Maracana, with more than 160 teams represented and each led by a flag bearer.

 

Britain's Pearson has won 12 Paralympic medals, including 10 golds, in four Games.

 

There were 50,000 tickets available for the opening ceremony, with organisers saying fewer than 1,000 remain.

 

The performance, which will last three hours and is expected to explore the power of diversity, has been put together by 500 staff, including choreographers and artists, and will include 2,000 volunteers.