ParalympicsGB has proudly announced that Matt Bush and Poppy Maskill will be the flagbearers for the British team at the Closing Ceremony of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Both debut athletes shone brightly, not just with their impressive performances but also as supportive teammates, embodying the values ParalympicsGB holds dear.

Matt Bush, who won gold in the men’s 80kg+ Para taekwondo, described the honour as an “unbelievable way” to finish his first Paralympic Games. Bush had faced setbacks in previous years, including injuries that ruled him out of the Tokyo 2020 Games, but his perseverance paid off. Reflecting on his selection as flagbearer, he said, “It’s an unbelievable honour to represent not only the athletes in my sport but across all the 19 sports in ParalympicsGB. ParalympicsGB is such a close-knit team; it is extra special that I can carry the flag on behalf of everyone.”

Poppy Maskill, who competed in the S14 Para swimming category, had a stellar Games, winning three gold medals, including a world record in the 100m butterfly, alongside two silvers. As ParalympicsGB’s most successful multi-medalist at Paris 2024, Maskill was thrilled to take on the flagbearer role: “I’ve won five medals in Paris, the butterfly was my favourite as it was my first Paralympic medal and a world record. I’ve had a really amazing time and I can’t wait to carry the flag.”

Penny Briscoe OBE, ParalympicsGB Chef de Mission, praised both athletes for their athletic prowess and teamwork, emphasizing how they have exemplified the spirit of the British team throughout the Games. She said, “They have thrived in the Paralympic Village and supported their teammates throughout, exemplifying the team spirit and values that ParalympicsGB as a team is so proud of.”

The Closing Ceremony will be a fitting end to the Paralympic journeys of Bush and Maskill, marking a high note in what has been an unforgettable Paris 2024 Paralympic Games for the British team.

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