Blind football and goalball are two of the silent sports featured at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games, catering to athletes with visual impairments. Spectators in the Eiffel Tower Stadium are reminded to remain quiet, creating a unique ambiance that is unheard of in most sports venues. The ball used in these sports contains a rattle or bell for location purposes, and players rely heavily on sound to navigate the field. Fans must contain their excitement until the ball is out of play, leading to a steady focus on the game unfolding before them.
Brazilian blind football star Jeferson “Jefinho” Goncalves expressed that the crowd’s energy helps him and his teammates feel supported and engaged. Fans like French teenager Jade Sidot noted that watching blind football requires a different level of attention compared to able-bodied soccer matches. While some fans may feel unsure about when to cheer, a goalball commentator reassures them that noise is allowed. A runner takes the field during halftime and breaks with a sign that encourages fans to get loud, a directive that is typically heeded with enthusiasm.
In moments of celebration, the crowd erupts with thunderous applause, showing their support for the players and their accomplishments. Dutch fan Jamie Koudijs mentioned feeling a special connection with the athletes and their achievements due to the silent nature of the sport. The back-and-forth dynamic of when to cheer and when to remain silent can sometimes be distracting for the players, but there is optimism that fans will become more accustomed to the noise rules over time. As blind football gains popularity, the hope is that these issues will start to diminish.
Fans in the Eiffel Tower Stadium often mention feeling that their silence is a sign of respect for the athletes and the sports themselves. Brazilian fan Joaquim Mendes appreciated the respectful behavior of the spectators during a blind football match between Brazil and Turkey, while Sidot noted that despite the silence, the excitement and energy in the stadium were palpable. Overall, fans and players alike appreciate the unique experience of silent sports and the heightened sense of focus and connection they bring. Support from the crowd helps the athletes feel engaged and supported, leading to a memorable and interactive sporting experience for all involved.
